Abstract:
A continuous process for obtaining zinc oxide of a grade higher than 75 percent from oxidized zinciferous ores, which comprises: Preheating the zinc-containing mineral and calcining it at temperatures above 800* C. (preferably at 900*-1,000* C.) by the combustion products of the gases leaving the reducing reactor. Treating the calcined ore in a fluidized bed at a temperature of from 1,000 to 1,200* C. with reducing gases obtained by direct injection of a hydrocarbon fuel and of an amount of air less than stoichiometric into the fluid bed and discharging the zinc-free residues. Burning the reducing gas of the reduction stage containing the metallic zinc vapors with air to produce a burnt gas containing CO2, H2O and ZnO. Using the burnt gas to preheat the air necessary for the partial combustion of the fuel by indirect heat exchange and the incoming zinciferous ore by direct heat exchange. Subjecting the off gases, after having released part of their heat to the air and to the ore, to separation in order to recover the zinc oxide.