Refining & Grade Specs

Platinum Refining Methods and Grade Specifications

The transformation of Platinum concentrate into refined products suitable for industrial use requires specialized metallurgical and chemical processes. Platinum is refined into 4 primary commercial forms, each serving specific end-use sectors.

Refining Processes

The primary refining and processing pathways for Platinum include:

1. Flotation and smelting
2. Base metal refinery
3. Precious metal refinery
4. Selective precipitation

Product Forms and Grade Specifications

Refined Platinum is available in the following commercial forms, each with specific purity requirements:

Quality Standards and Benchmarks

International standards for Platinum products are established by organizations such as ASTM International and various national standards bodies. Pricing is referenced against LBMA/Johnson Matthey assessments. These standards define minimum purity levels, acceptable impurity limits, and testing methodologies that facilitate international trade.

Refining Capacity and Geography

Global refining capacity for Platinum is concentrated in a limited number of countries. South Africa controls approximately 72% of primary production and plays a significant role in downstream refining. Efforts to diversify refining capacity are a key priority for governments seeking to reduce supply chain dependencies, particularly in the diesel catalytic converters sector.