Discus the method of extraction of sulphur in brief.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Sulphur extraction often involves three main steps: locating underground sulphur deposits, utilising the Frasch process to bring the sulphur to the surface and finally, purifying the extracted sulphur. The Frasch process uses three concentric tubes to pump superheated water and hot air into the ground to create sulphur foam, which is then brought to the surface. The sulphur is then cooled, hardened and purified by distillation.

Step by step solution

01

Underground Sulphur Deposits

The first step of extracting sulphur involves locating underground deposits of sulphur. Often, these deposits are found in conjunction with oil or natural gas.
02

The Frasch Process

The main method for extracting sulphur is the Frasch process. In this process, three concentric tubes are used. The outermost tube pumps superheated water (at about 170°C) into the ground to melt the sulphur. The middle tube pumps hot air into the ground to create foam with melted sulphur. The innermost tube then pumps the foam of melted sulphur and air to the surface.
03

Sulphur Purification

After the sulphur has been brought to the surface, it's then allowed to cool and harden. The sulphur is then purified by distillation to remove any impurities like organic matter or minerals.
04

Final Product

The final product is molten sulphur, which is either cast into blocks or run into granulator to produce pastilles.

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