Bismuth prices slip a little but may rebound

By Tom Stundza -- Purchasing, 5/21/2008 10:47:00 AM

Bismuth has slipped to $15.11/lb this month from $15.70 in April but remains higher than February’s cyclical low of $12.50 as demand for the material as a substitute for lead in metalworked products has started to slip. Demand remains strong from makers of consumer products—medicinal compounds and cosmetics mostly.

Prior to the earthquake in China's Sichuan province, Asian stockpiles were said to be high. But, since bismuth usually is obtained as a byproduct of the refining of lead, copper, tin, silver and gold, the status of Sichuan mining operation may determine the near-term supply of bismuth. Meanwhile, China is continuing with plans to open a government-owned 4,000 metric ton/year bismuth refinery in Hunan province.