Direct coal liquefaction process typically produces mixed oils (60%) and gases (15%). The remainder is a high-boiling viscous residue that contains oils, asphaltenes, unreacted coal, mineral matter and potentially valuable liquefaction catalyst. Effective separation of the components of the residue stream is important to the economic and environmental performance of the process. Solidliquid separation technologies, such as filtration, hydrocyclones, centrifugation, critical solvent deashing and distillation have been reviewed in relation to their use in coal liquefaction processes. Individual operations used have not been completely satisfactory, and a better overall result is obtained when they are used in combination. (c) 2012 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering