Malodorous tar-oil sludges, whose compositions vary widely according to the origin of the products, cause numerous problems on disposal. Possible treatment methods include drying in combination with conversion, mixed fuel production, or distillational fractionation of mixed residues. Depending upon the process, the components can be utilised as materials or replace other raw materials in the case of thermal utilisation. Processing of these materials to yield valuable oils and coke is profitable business.