What is the function of coke and limestone in the smelting of hematite?

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Function of Coke and Limestone in the Smelting of Hematite

Coke and limestone play crucial roles in the smelting of hematite, a process used to extract iron from its ore. Here is a detailed explanation of the functions of coke and limestone in this process:

Coke

Coke is a form of carbon that serves as a reducing agent in the smelting process.
When coke is burned in the presence of hematite (iron ore), it produces carbon monoxide, which reacts with the iron oxide in hematite to form metallic iron.
This reduction reaction allows for the extraction of iron from hematite, as the carbon monoxide removes oxygen from the iron oxide.
Without coke, the reduction of iron oxide in hematite would not be possible, making coke an essential component in the smelting process.

Limestone

Limestone is added to the smelting process as a flux.
As the coke burns and produces carbon monoxide, impurities such as silica (SiO2) in the iron ore combine with the calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in limestone to form a molten slag.
The slag, being lighter than molten iron, floats on top and can be easily separated, carrying away impurities from the iron.
In addition, limestone helps maintain the basicity of the furnace, which is essential for the efficient reduction of iron oxide.

By using coke as a reducing agent and limestone as a flux, the smelting of hematite becomes an effective process for extracting iron from its ore while removing impurities to produce high-quality iron products.

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