Describe the process of extraction of zinc from its ore

Ores of Zinc

zinc blende, ZnS

calamine, ZnCO₃

Extraction of Zinc from zinc blende

1. Concentration of the ore by floatation method

• The finely pulverized ore is mixed with water, containing ‘frothing’ agent (s).
• Air is blown into the mixture, froth is produced and the earthly material is “wetted” and sinks.
• The sulphide ore particles, rise to the surface in the froth and are skimmed off the surface.
• Anti- frothing agent agent is added to break up the froth, the concentrated ore is filtered and dried

2. Roasting

The concentrated ore is then roasted in air to convert it into the oxide:

2ZnS (s)  +  3O₂ (g)    →    2ZnO (s)  +  2SO₂ (g)

ZnCO₃ (s) →     ZnO (s)  +   CO₂ (g)

3. Reduction of the oxide

The zinc oxide is reduced by heating with coke. The zinc is led off as a vapour, which is then cooled.

ZnO (g) + C (g)   →    Zn (g)  +  CO (g)

Please Subscribe to promote this website. Subscription is free

Share with a friend

Your comment is valuable

Thank you so much