A novel method for removing quinoline insolubles and ash in coal tar pitch using electrostatic fields

► Electrostatic field has been successfully applied to the removal of QI and ash in coal tar pitch. ► Removal efficiency for QI and ash is 100 wt.% and 80.5 wt.%, respectively. ► Comparing with centrifugal method for removal of QI and ash, electrostatic field decreases by 88% of energy consumption. ► Equilibrium between desorption and deposition rates can be arrived with EF lasting time of 40 min. ► The method proposed here for the removal of QI and ash is a green and effective technology.