The reaction product obtained from direct thermochemical liquefaction of sewage sludge is a mixture of heavy oil, char and aqueous phase. The heavy oil must be separated from the product if it is to be used for boiler fuel and other applications. High-pressure distillation (573K-8.8 MPa) was evaluated as a means of isolating heavy oil from the product. As a result, heavy oil suitable for use as fuel was obtained. This distillation method is a promising technique for oil separation from the liquefaction product of sewage sludge. © 1990, The Society of Chemical Engineers, Japan. All rights reserved.