History of Zinc Metal in Iran
The oldest mineralogical records in Iran are related to the Turquoise mine in Neyshabour and the Copper of Qaleh Zari, dating back to 4-5,000 years BC. All activities of lead and zinc mines were done in ancient form before World War II. In the 1930s, German experts have brought new mining methods to Iran, especially in the field of metal mines. At this time, the lead and zinc mines of the Nakhlak, Siah Koh Anarak, Bibi Shahrbano Lead mine and several other mines were active. Lead and Zinc mines were well-developed in the years 1946 to 1975. The first modern zinc-zinc concentrating factory was opened in 1962 with the help of a French company in Lakan/ Markazi Province. From 1962 to 1992, Iranian mines products were exported after concentration. After Iran-Iraq war, due to the existence of the Angouran mine, the Iranian experts, were interested in obtaining Zinc metal technology. In this regard, extensive national research was conducted to obtain zinc ingot technology from concentrate and Anguran ore and lead to the production of the first Zinc ingot in the pilot scale in 1992. Since 1993, Zinc Ingots production have been started at the Iran Mining Processing Company (Zanjan Melting Unit), and since then, with the construction and commissioning of new units, the production of zinc ingots in the country has increased. This unit is mainly engaged in the production of zinc ingot using domestic acquired technology.