Method of separating solids using bio-oils

A process for separating a solid having two or more components, at least one of which is hydrophobic and at least one of which is hydrophilic, comprising:

• in a single step comminuting a mixture of the solid in an aqueous solvent and liquid which is immiscible with the aqueous solvent and which will wet the hydrophobic component to form agglomerates or flocs of the hydrophobic component and the immiscible liquid, in a mill having positive transport capability, such that the mill causes the mixture to be transported therethrough, wherein the immiscible liquid comprises a bio-oil, bio-diesel or combination thereof;
• and
• thereafter, the further step of separating the agglomerates from the mixture,
• wherein the bio-oil, bio-diesel or combination thereof, is present in an amount of at least about 1% (w/w) based on the weight of the total mixture.

A process for beneficiating a coal containing ash, comprising:

• in a single step, comminuting a mixture of coal, aqueous solvent and bio-oil, bio-diesel or combinations thereof, to liberate at least a portion of the ash and coal in particulate form, and to form agglomerates or flocs of the coal particles and the bio-oil or bio-diesel in a mill having positive transport capability, such that the mill causes the mixture to be transported therethrough;
• and
• thereafter, the further step of separating the agglomerates or flocs from the mixture,
• wherein the bio-oil, bio-diesel or combination thereof, is present in an amount of at least about 1% (w/w) based on the weight of the total mixture.