ZINC EXTRACTION PROCESSES

The most important raw material for production of Zinc is Zinc Sulphide (ZnS) ore commonly known as Sphalerite. Next in the importance are Zinc Carbonates (Calamine/Smithsonite) and Zinc Silicate. Most of the zinc production worldwide originates from sulphide ores.

The principal processes by which zinc is extracted from its ores can be categorised under pyro-metallurgical processes and hydro-metallurgical processes.

A. Pyrometallurgical Processes:

i) Horizontal Retort Process

ii) Vertical Retort Process

iii) Electro Thermal Process

iv) Imperial Smelting Process

B. Hydrometallurgical Processes:

i) Roast Leach Electrowin Process

ii) Pressure Leaching Process

 

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