The different steps involved in the extraction of zinc from zinc blende (ZnS) are given below:
(i) Concentration of ore
First, the gangue from zinc blende is removed by the froth floatation method.
(ii) Conversion to oxide (Roasting)
Sulphide ore is converted into oxide by the process of roasting. In this process, ZnS is
heated in a regular supply of air in a furnace at a temperature, which is below the melting
point of Zn.
(iii) Extraction of zinc from zinc oxide (Reduction)
Zinc is extracted from zinc oxide by the process of reduction. The reduction of zinc oxide is carried out by mixing it with powdered coke and then, heating it at 673 K.
(iv) Electrolytic Refining
Zinc can be refined by the process of electrolytic refining. In this process, impure zinc is made the anode while a pure copper strip is made the cathode. The electrolyte used is an acidified solution of zinc sulphate (ZnSO4). Electrolysis results in the transfer of zinc in pure from the anode to the cathode.
