VI be improved if more time had been available. If the book on lead were to be rewritten thermochemists, electrochemists and theoreticians on elasticity would be required, besides technologists, to support the work of the metallurgist. In recent years the pace of research and development has increased enormously, resulting in the evolution of completely new technologies. In spite of the demand thereby created for new and exotic mate­ rials with special properties, industry will continue to depend in large measure on classical materials and conventional processes. The older metals, including lead, will therefore always maintain their importance alongside the new materials, even in a world of rapidly changing technologies. Brunswick (Braunschweig),.July 1965 Wilhelm Hofmann Editor's Foreword Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil. WILHELM HOFMANN, who died suddenlyon 16th November, 1965, had already completed the manuscript of the English edition before his death, together with the main Foreword repro­ duced here. I have made every attempt to ensure that publication should be carried out as Prof. HOFMANN would himself have wished. This has been done with the cooperation of Frau Dr. MARGARETE BLUTH and the support of Frau AURELIE HOFMANN. Brunswick (Braunschweig), July 1969 Gerwig Vibrans Contents A. General I. History, Geochemistry, Production 1 II. Smelter Production 5 Types of Lead.