Abstract: An improved mechanical dewatering process wherein high moisture content organic carbonaceous materials are mixed with hard, non-porous particulates prior to mechanical dewatering by conventional methods, and the particulates are removed after mechanical dewatering treatment to yield organic carbonaceous product having a moisture content of less than about 50 weight percent total water suitable for use directly as a fuel or as substrate for subsequent conversion processes.

Abstract: An energy efficient process for beneficiating and dewatering high water content carbonaceous materials utilizing a pneumatic stream to entrain, transport, dewater and to carbonize organic carbonaceous material in a fluidized bed. The process utilizes physical separation for principal removal of moisture and reduces contact between organic carbonaceous matter and hot process water, thereby retaining a high organic content in the product fuel. The organic carbonaceous materials are chemically beneficiated during carbonization in a fluidized bed contactor. Heat exchange and heat recovery procedures provide an economical, energy efficient process.