A method for removing one or more strongly adsorbed components (SAC) from a process gas stream having SAC and other gaseous components adjusts the temperature of the SAC-laden process gas stream to be between about 80.degree. and about 500.degree. C. The temperature-adjusted process gas stream is contacted with a heat-exchange surface to transfer heat to an adsorbent, thus causing adsorbed SAC to be desorbed for collection, and to cool the process gas stream and remove any condensate from the cooled process gas stream. The cooled process gas stream is contacted with a cooled section of the adsorbent to adsorb SAC therefrom, producing a SAC-depleted process gas stream and a SAC-laden adsorbent. Desorbed SAC is withdrawn for collection and any adsorbent fines are withdrawing for collection.