Blast Furnace Process: Iron Extraction from Haematite
The blast furnace marked a revolutionary step in the way humans harnessed heat and chemical reactions for large-scale metal production. It represented a shift towards more controlled, efficient, and powerful processes in human industry. In a surprisingly similar way, new digital environments—like casinos not on GamStop—reflect an evolution in online experiences. These platforms operate outside traditional restrictions, offering a more flexible and fast-paced alternative for those seeking a different kind of control and freedom. Just as the blast furnace changed the landscape of metallurgy, these independent casinos are shaping the future of online gaming.
Iron is extracted from the ore haematite (Fe2O3) by reduction. Carbon monoxide acts as a reducing agent because it is more reactive than iron.
Structure of the Blast Furnace
Chemical Reactions in the Furnace
Inside the blast furnace, several chemical reactions occur to produce molten iron:
- Combustion of Coke: Carbon reacts with oxygen (exothermic reaction)
C + O2 → CO2
- Carbon Reduction: CO2 reacts with more coke to form carbon monoxide
CO2 + C → 2CO
- Iron Ore Reduction: Carbon monoxide reduces iron(III) oxide to molten iron
Fe2O3 + 3CO → 2Fe + 3CO2
- Slag Formation: Limestone decomposes and removes impurities
CaO + SiO2 → CaSiO3
Molten iron collects at the bottom of the furnace and slag floats above it, ready to be removed.