Along with other industrial purposes, one of leads main and growing uses continues to be in batteries. Peter Theyer, geologist for Winnipeg's Wildcat Exploration ^[1], says it is almost irreplaceable for this use at this time. This is largely because of the high volumes of cars being produced.

Previously used in a lot of household products such as pipes, glass, paint and even children's toys, lead is now believed to create certain health risks ^[2] with overexposure. It was also de-throned to an extent in the 1980′s when it was removed from gasoline, said Theyer.

Alan Taylor, Operating Officer for the Canadian Zinc Corp. ^[3], also noted a demand due to the high production of batteries. While he agreed that there is a slight over-stock of lead right now, this will eventually even itself out over the long term.

Many companies already involved in zinc-lead exploration are continuing new mining projects, however, there is a lack of new lead producers. This will have a positive effect on the current prices when the demand increases.

Investors considering lead need to think in the long term.