Gilsonite, also known as natural bitumen or uintaite, is a solid hydrocarbon with a unique chemical structure that makes it a highly versatile industrial material. Unlike refined petroleum asphalt, Gilsonite is mined directly from natural underground veins. This natural origin gives it exceptional purity, stability, and performance benefits across multiple industries.
At Gilsonite Iraq, operated by Kaplan Co., we source directly from our Kurdistan Region mine. With reserves reaching 95% purity, our Gilsonite is among the cleanest in the region, making it ideal for international clients who demand consistent quality and reliable supply.
Asphalt & Road Paving
One of the most significant uses of Gilsonite is in the modification of hot-mix asphalt (HMA). When blended with bitumen, Gilsonite improves:
- Durability and strength: Higher resistance to rutting, cracking, and fatigue under heavy traffic.
- Weather resistance: Better performance in high-temperature climates such as the Middle East.
- Adhesion: Stronger bonding between aggregates and binder.
Real-world impact: In highway construction, Gilsonite reduces maintenance cycles and lowers life-cycle costs, making it a sustainable choice for governments and contractors.
📖 Reference: FHWA – Federal Highway Administration, EAPA – European Asphalt Pavement Association.
Oil & Gas Drilling
In the energy sector, Gilsonite plays a crucial role in drilling fluids and cementing applications.
- Fluid-loss control: Reduces the seepage of drilling mud into formations.
- Wellbore stability: Strengthens walls of the borehole and prevents collapse.
- Compatibility: Oil-soluble nature makes it blend seamlessly with petroleum-based drilling systems.
Our low-ash, high-carbon Gilsonite from Kalar mine is specifically valued by drilling companies across Asia and the Middle East for its consistent performance.
📖 Reference: SPE – Society of Petroleum Engineers, OnePetro – Drilling Research Papers.
Ink, Paint, and Coating Manufacturing
Gilsonite enhances the quality and finish of printing inks, industrial paints, and protective coatings.
- Gloss and color intensity: Produces deep black pigments and enhances color richness.
- Drying time: Reduces drying periods for faster production cycles.
- Durability: Increases resistance to chemicals, moisture, and abrasion.
Manufacturers rely on Gilsonite Iraq’s controlled particle sizes (from lump to micronized powders) for precise formulation needs.
📖 Reference: American Coatings Association, Ink World Magazine.
Foundry and Casting Applications
In the metallurgical industry, Gilsonite is widely used as a carbon additive in foundry sands and casting processes.
- Mold strength: Improves bonding and reduces defects.
- Surface finish: Produces cleaner, smoother castings with fewer imperfections.
- Carbon yield: Provides a reliable source of fixed carbon during metal casting.
This makes it especially valuable in steel and iron production where consistency in casting quality is critical.
📖 Reference: American Foundry Society.
Waterproofing & Sealants
Due to its water-resistant and thermoplastic properties, Gilsonite is used in a variety of waterproofing products:
- Roofing membranes and underlays
- Sealants for tunnels and foundations
- Industrial coatings for pipelines and storage tanks
Gilsonite’s natural impermeability ensures long-lasting protection against moisture penetration, even in harsh environments.
📖 Reference: NRCA – National Roofing Contractors Association.
Battery & Energy Storage
Gilsonite is gaining attention in advanced energy systems, especially as a carbon source in battery technologies:
- Conductive filler: Its high fixed carbon content makes it suitable for enhancing electrical conductivity in electrodes, particularly in lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries.
- Thermal stability: Gilsonite resists decomposition at high temperatures, improving battery performance under stress.
- Eco-friendly alternative: As a naturally occurring material, it offers a lower environmental footprint compared to synthetic carbon additives.
This makes Gilsonite a promising candidate for manufacturers seeking sustainable components in energy storage systems.
📖 Reference: ScienceDirect – Gilsonite as carbon additive in batteries, US Department of Energy – Energy Storage.
Construction Materials & Composites
In the construction industry, Gilsonite is used to improve the performance of various building materials:
- Concrete modifiers: When added to concrete mixes, it enhances water resistance and reduces permeability—ideal for foundations, basements, and tunnel linings.
- Bituminous membranes: Used in waterproofing sheets and underlays for roofs and bridges.
- Composite panels: In engineered wood and fiberboard, Gilsonite improves bonding and dimensional stability.
Its thermoplastic nature and natural adhesion make it a valuable additive in both traditional and modern construction systems.
📖 Reference: American Concrete Institute (ACI), International Waterproofing Association.
Industrial Cleaning & Abrasives
Gilsonite’s hardness and chemical resistance lend themselves to applications in industrial cleaning and abrasive products:
- Abrasive powders: Used in polishing compounds and sandblasting media for metal and glass surfaces.
- Detergent fillers: Acts as a heat-resistant filler in heavy-duty cleaning agents for machinery and industrial equipment.
- Surface prep: Helps remove rust, paint, and scale without damaging base materials.
Its granular form can be customized to meet specific grit sizes and hardness levels.
📖 Reference: Abrasive Engineering Society, European Federation of Cleaning Industries.
Packaging & Adhesives
Gilsonite is a valuable ingredient in the formulation of adhesives and packaging materials:
- Hot-melt adhesives: Enhances tackiness, thermal resistance, and bonding strength in packaging glues.
- Sealants: Used in carton sealing and industrial tapes for its moisture resistance and flexibility.
- Barrier films: Improves the impermeability of plastic films used in food and pharmaceutical packaging.
Its compatibility with polymers makes it ideal for blending into thermoplastic adhesive systems.
📖 Reference: Adhesives & Sealants Council, Flexible Packaging Association.
Chemical Processing & Resin Formulation
In specialty chemical manufacturing, Gilsonite serves as a functional additive in resin systems:
- Thermoset resins: Improves hardness, gloss, and thermal resistance in epoxy and phenolic resins.
- Friction materials: Used in brake pads and clutch linings to enhance wear resistance and thermal stability.
- Binder systems: Acts as a natural binder in refractory materials and molded components.
Its high carbon content and solubility in aromatic solvents make it a versatile ingredient in chemical engineering.
📖 Reference: Polymer Science (Springer), SAE International.
Agricultural Applications
Though less common, Gilsonite is emerging in agricultural technologies:
- Fertilizer coatings: Used to slow nutrient release and improve moisture retention in soil.
- Soil stabilizers: Enhances soil structure and reduces erosion in arid and semi-arid regions.
- Pest barriers: Its hydrophobic nature can help create physical barriers against certain soil-borne pests.
These applications are especially relevant in sustainable farming and land reclamation projects.
📖 Reference: International Fertilizer Association, FAO – Food and Agriculture Organization.
Why Choose Gilsonite Iraq for Industrial Applications?
- Direct mine ownership: Our mine is operated by Kaplan Co., ensuring full control from extraction to export.
- High purity: With 95% purity and only 2.5% ash, our Gilsonite is among the best grades available.
- Flexible supply formats: From jumbo bags (1 MT) to bulk shipments, tailored to client needs.
- Global export reach: Regular shipments to Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
- Trusted quality: Every shipment includes MSDS, COA, Packing List, Commercial Invoice, and SGS report upon request.
- Faster delivery: Strategic location near major trade routes reduces shipping time and cost.
Technical Specifications of Natural Bitumen
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Purity | 95% |
| Ash Content | 2.5% |
| Volatile Matter | 59.47% |
| Fixed Carbon | 37.78% |
| Moisture Content | 0.25% |
| Form | Lump |
Conclusion
Gilsonite’s versatility across industries—from highways to drilling rigs and from inks to waterproofing membranes—demonstrates why it remains a strategic mineral in today’s global economy.
At Gilsonite Iraq, we are proud to deliver premium-grade natural bitumen directly from our own mine in Kurdistan Region, IRAQ. With controlled quality, flexible packaging, and proven export experience, we are the trusted partner for clients worldwide.
👉 Ready to source Gilsonite for your next project?