Abstract: A novel partial combustion process and apparatus therefor are disclosed wherein coal powder is passed from a fluidization vessel operated at high pressure to a gasification reactor operated at a substantially constant small pressure increment below the pressure of the fluidization vessel. Coal powder solids are introduced into the fluidization vessel through coal powder supply means while the fluidization gas is introduced into the fluidization vessel to fluidize the coal powder solids in the fluidization vessel. The fluidized powder is discharged through novel passage means in a direction perpendicular to the direction of flow of the fluidization gas flowing into the vessel, so that the fluidized coal powder is concentrated during flow and is uniformly dispersed, whereby the transfer rate of the coal powder is substantially increased, thereby making it possible to use smaller sizes of equipment for the same volumes handled.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the upgrading of solid material containing bound water and free or chemically bound carbon, in particular brown coal, which process involves a heat treatment at a temperature of at least 150.degree. C and at a pressure that is higher than the vapor pressure of water at that temperature.