Nickel smelting is the process of extracting nickel from its ores. This involves heating the ore in a furnace to separate the metal from impurities. The primary ores used in nickel smelting are nickel sulfides and nickel laterites. The process can produce various nickel products, including nickel matte and ferronickel. After smelting, the nickel is often further refined to remove remaining impurities. This refining can involve processes like electrolysis or chemical leaching. The final product is used in various applications, including the production of stainless steel and batteries, making nickel an essential metal in modern industries.