Sulfur removal in coal tar pitch by oxidation with hydrogen peroxide catalyzed by trichloroacetic acid and ultrasonic waves

► A highly effective method for sulfur removal from coal tar pitch was developed. ► The rate of removal for sulfur in coal tar pitch may reach 91.1%. ► The effects of H2O2 and trichloroacetic acid on sulfur removal were investigated. ► Surfactants used in the experiments have no positive effect on sulfur removal.