Abstract: A low rank coal or peat has various impurities removed therefrom by a drying process. The impurities may be removed in a subsequent operation. The dried coal or peat will not absorb substantial moisture when stored or transported.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for removing a substantial portion of water and impurities from low rank coal and peat, whereby an improved coal or peat product (not found in nature) is obtained. The low rank coal and peat are subjected to a superheated gaseous medium, thereby substantially desorbing the moisture from the coal or peat and producing superheated gases. A substantial portion of the superheated gases produced is recycled back in contact with the coal being dried. Sufficient heat is added to the recycled gases, in response to monitoring, so that the recycled gases are maintained in a substantially superheated condition throughout. This process produces a dried, substantially purified product which retains a substantial portion of its volatile content, which has an improved heat value per unit weight, and which will not absorb substantial moisture when stored or transported. In one embodiment, the process utilizes superheated steam to initiate the drying process.