Extraction of Zinc

• Ore = Zinc Blende /Zinc Sulfide (ZnS)
• Extraction of Zinc:

  1. Zinc blende is roasted in air; produces zinc oxide and sulfur dioxide
  2. Zinc oxide is reduced to zinc and carbon monoxide by using coke in the furnace
  3. As zinc is volatile, the gaseous metal is distilled leaving less volatile impurities behind.
  4. Zinc is condensed in a tray and collected