Lead(II) oxide, also called lead monoxide, is the inorganic compound with the molecular formula PbO. PbO occurs in two polymorphs: litharge having a tetragonal crystal structure, and massicot having an orthorhombic crystal structure.
More than 23.72 million tons of Zinc/Lead reserves are found in Pakistan. The Jurassic rocks of the Lasbela – Khuzdar Belt have the potential to host several WORLD CLASS’ zinc – lead ore deposits. Among the four better known deposits of Surmai Gunga, Dhungei Duddar is the most advanced.
- Detailed geo-scientific studies through mapping and drilling (46000 meters) an inferred plus indicated geological reserves of 14.31 Mt @ 80.6 % Zn and cut-off 3.2% Pb have been calculated for the Duddar Deposit using + 7% Zn Pb cut-off. - The resources of Duddar Deposit have been estimated at about 50 Mt. Chinese MCC Resource Development company is working on it.
To mine and produce concentrates for export till economy of scale permit their local production. Zinc sulphate for rice field and lead for the manufacturing of paints.
The proposed Minerals Economic Processing Zones in KP included Besham (iron ore, lead) .