Abstract: A process for the direct recovery of metallic lead from battery paste in an electrolysis unit is disclosed. The electrolysis unit consists of an anode compartment and a cathode compartment separated by an ion selective membrane. The cathode consists of a high surface area electrically conductive substrate. Solid particles of battery paste are introduced into the cathode compartment which contains a liquid electrolyte and a complexing agent. Metallic lead is electrochemically deposited on the cathode, and sulfuric acid is produced in the anode compartment.