When sourcing industrial raw materials like Gilsonite, buyers and engineers need more than just promises of quality — they need verified analysis backed by international standards. Whether the end-use is in asphalt modification, drilling fluids, coatings, inks, or waterproofing membranes, the performance of Gilsonite depends on its chemical composition and physical properties.
At Gilsonite Iraq, we take this need seriously. Unlike many trading companies that offer multiple, inconsistent grades, our model is straightforward: we supply only one fixed, high-purity Gilsonite grade from our mine in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Every shipment comes with the same Certificate of Analysis (COA), guaranteeing consistency across orders. This transparency reduces risks for buyers and ensures repeatable performance in their applications.
Gilsonite Analysis (COA)
The analysis of Gilsonite covers several key physical and chemical parameters. These values determine how the material performs in industrial processes, from asphalt paving to drilling and beyond.
Standard Analysis of Gilsonite Iraq (Typical Values):
| Property | Typical Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Purity | 95% | In-house lab / SGS on request |
| Ash Content | 2.5% | ASTM D482 |
| Fixed Carbon | 37.78% | ASTM D3172 |
| Volatile Matter | 59.47% | ASTM D3175 |
| Moisture Content | 0.25% | ASTM D2216 |
| Softening Point | 140–220 °C (depending on grade) | ASTM D36 (Ring & Ball) |
| Sulfur Content | 0.5–2% | ASTM D4294 |
| Physical Form | Lump (can be micronized on demand) | Visual |
These values make Iraqi Gilsonite one of the highest quality natural bitumen sources in the world. The combination of high fixed carbon, low ash, and wide softening point range makes it suitable for multiple industries with demanding technical standards.
Reference: ASTM International – Bitumen Test Standards
Why Gilsonite Analysis Matters
1. Quality Assurance
For global buyers, receiving the wrong grade or inconsistent material can lead to failed projects, wasted resources, and higher costs. A detailed analysis ensures that every ton of Gilsonite matches the specifications required for asphalt modification, drilling fluids, or industrial coatings.
2. Technical Fit for Applications
Each industry requires Gilsonite with specific characteristics:
- Asphalt needs the right softening point and carbon content for improved rutting resistance.
- Drilling requires low ash and high thermal stability for fluid-loss control.
- Inks and coatings depend on gloss, color intensity, and solubility.
By providing a fixed analysis, Gilsonite Iraq removes uncertainty for buyers.
3. Compliance with International Standards
Our analysis is conducted in line with ASTM and ISO testing methods. This allows buyers worldwide to compare our Gilsonite directly with other sources, ensuring trust and technical reliability.
Reference: Highways Today – Bitumen specifications and tests
4. Buyer Confidence
Analysis builds trust. By sharing our standard COA openly, Gilsonite Iraq shows commitment to transparency and customer satisfaction. Clients know exactly what they are buying, with no hidden surprises.
How We Provide Analysis
At Gilsonite Iraq, every shipment is accompanied by the following:
- COA (Certificate of Analysis): Official document detailing chemical and physical properties.
- MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): Safety and handling information.
- Packing List & Commercial Invoice: Required for export and customs clearance.
- Certificate of Origin: Proof that the Gilsonite is sourced directly from Iraq.
- SGS Inspection (on request): Independent verification available for clients who require third-party testing.
By standardizing these documents, we simplify international transactions and reduce the risk of disputes.
Why Gilsonite Iraq Uses One Standard Analysis
Unlike suppliers that offer multiple grades with varying ash or carbon levels, Gilsonite Iraq follows a single-analysis policy. This benefits clients in several ways:
- Consistency: No matter when or how often you order, the product is always the same.
- Predictability: Engineers and formulators can design processes with confidence.
- Transparency: No hidden substitutions or grade-switching.
- Efficiency: Buyers spend less time verifying material and more time using it.
This approach makes Gilsonite Iraq a trusted supplier for companies across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Case Example: Asphalt Performance
In hot climates where road pavements suffer from rutting and cracking, Gilsonite’s softening point and high fixed carbon play a crucial role. By analyzing and confirming these properties through our COA, we ensure that every batch can withstand high temperatures and heavy traffic loads.
This is why engineers rely on documented Gilsonite analysis before approving it for road projects.
Reference: FHWA – Asphalt Pavement Program
Case Example: Drilling Fluids
Oil and gas drilling is one of the most sensitive applications for Gilsonite. A small variation in ash content or volatile matter can change the performance of drilling mud. With a fixed ash level of 2.5% and high carbon yield, Gilsonite Iraq ensures drilling companies receive material that stabilizes wellbores, reduces fluid loss, and resists downhole conditions.
Our analysis provides the confidence operators need to deploy Gilsonite in critical drilling environments.
Reference: OnePetro (SPE) – Lost circulation in drilling fluids using Gilsonite
Why Choose Gilsonite Iraq for Analytical Consistency
- Direct mine ownership → We control extraction, grading, and packaging.
- High purity → 95% Gilsonite from Iraq’s Kurdistan Region.
- International testing standards → ASTM and ISO compliant.
- Full documentation → COA, MSDS, Packing List, Commercial Invoice.
- Trusted by global industries → From asphalt to coatings and drilling.
Conclusion
Gilsonite is only as valuable as the analysis that proves its quality. At Gilsonite Iraq, we make sure every shipment is backed by the same trusted COA, ensuring consistency, transparency, and performance.