Gilsonite Egypt

 

What is Gilsonite (Natural Bitumen)?

Gilsonite is a type of Natural Bitumen (asphaltite) that occurs naturally in mines and resembles hard, black asphalt. This substance is composed of hydrocarbon compounds and differs from petroleum-based bitumen in its chemical and physical properties.

Characteristics of Gilsonite:

  • Color: Shiny black
  • Solubility: Soluble in organic solvents such as toluene and benzene
  • High resistance: Resistant to water, heat, and chemicals
  • Density: Lower than petroleum-based bitumen

Applications of Gilsonite:

Oil and gas drilling industry: Used as an additive in drilling mud to reduce fluid loss.
Asphalt production: Enhances the quality and durability of asphalt, reducing cracking.
Ink and paint manufacturing: Used due to its high solubility and coloring properties.
Casting and foundry industry: Added to molding sands to improve the quality of cast parts.
Rubber and plastic industries: Enhances the mechanical properties of products.
Insulation and waterproofing materials: Used in construction and waterproofing applications.

Major Gilsonite Mines:

  • Iran: The provinces of Kermanshah, Ilam, and Lorestan have some of the richest Gilsonite reserves.
  • USA: The state of Utah is the world’s largest producer of Gilsonite.
  • Other countries: China, Venezuela, Colombia, and Canada also have Gilsonite deposits.

Conclusion:
Due to its unique physical and chemical properties, Gilsonite is widely used across various industries. It serves as an excellent alternative to some petroleum-based products and is increasingly utilized in modern industries.

Gilsonite Egypt

The Importance of Gilsonite in Egypt

Gilsonite, a naturally occurring solid hydrocarbon, plays a crucial role in various industries in Egypt due to its unique properties. Here’s why it is important:

  1. Role in the Asphalt and Road Construction Industry
    Gilsonite is widely used in Egypt’s infrastructure projects as a performance-enhancing additive in asphalt mixes. It improves:
    – Durability: Enhances resistance to wear and tear under high temperatures.
    – Waterproofing: Prevents moisture damage, which is critical for Egypt’s climate.
    – Flexibility & Adhesion: Helps asphalt withstand heavy traffic and temperature variations.
  2. Contribution to Oil & Gas Industry
    In Egypt’s oil drilling operations, Gilsonite is used as an additive in drilling fluids and cementing applications:
    Prevents fluid loss: Essential in deep drilling to maintain pressure balance.
    – Strengthens wellbore stability: Reduces formation damage and enhances drilling efficiency.
  3. Application in Paints, Coatings, and Inks
    Egypt’s industrial and manufacturing sectors use Gilsonite for producing:
    – High-performance paints and coatings with superior gloss, durability, and water resistance.
    – Printing inks for improved adhesion and fast drying.
  4. Waterproofing and Construction Materials
    Gilsonite is a key component in sealants and waterproofing products used in construction, helping protect buildings from moisture damage.
  5. Cost-Effectiveness and Sustainability
    Compared to synthetic alternatives, Gilsonite is a cost-efficient and eco-friendly solution, making it an attractive choice for various Egyptian industries.

Local and main suppliers of Gilsonite Egypt

EMEC (Egyptian Mud Engineering & Chemicals)
Cairo, Egypt
An Egyptian company supplying Gilsonite under brand names like EMEC TONE and EMEC NT, known for high-quality drilling fluids used in challenging wells.

International Suppliers Serving Egypt

*Zumrut Kimya: A Leading Supplier of Gilsonite in Egypt*

Introduction
Zumrut International Kimia is a premier global supplier of Gilsonite, serving industries across Egypt. With a strong commitment to quality, reliability, and innovation, the company has established itself as a trusted provider of this valuable natural bitumen, catering to diverse industrial applications.
Zumrut Kimia’s Presence in Egypt
With a strong global distribution network, Zumrut Kimia ensures the seamless supply of high-quality Gilsonite to Egypt.

Packaging of Gilsonite Egypt

Jumbo bags of 1Mt or 500Kgs -Which we advise for lambs shipment.
25-50 Kgs bags -Which we advise for powdered shipment.
Spiciall packing for Europe markets 25Kgs sand paper bags , palletised and shriked.

Key ports for Gilsonite Egypt discharge

For importing Gilsonite into Egypt, key ports of discharge include:

  1. Alexandria Port
    Egypt’s largest and busiest seaport, handling a significant portion of mineral and bulk cargo.
    Well-equipped for petroleum-based products like Gilsonite.
  2. Port Said Port
    Strategically located at the northern entrance of the Suez Canal.
    Ideal for shipments coming from Europe, Turkey, and Iran.
  3. Damietta Port
    Located on the Mediterranean coast, specializing in general and bulk cargo.
    A suitable option for Gilsonite imports due to its modern handling facilities.
  4. Sokhna Port
    The main Red Sea port in Egypt, near the Suez Canal.
    Preferred for shipments from the Middle East and Asia due to its proximity.
  5. Adabiya Port
    Located on the western shore of the Gulf of Suez.
    Efficient for handling dry bulk materials, including petroleum-based minerals like Gilsonite.

General Specification of Gilsonite Egypt

 

Specification unit results Test Method
Ash Content %Wt 2.0 – 10.0 ASTM D-3174
Moisture Content %Wt 1.0 – 3.0 ASTM D-3173
Volatile Matter %Wt 63 ASTM D-3175
Fixed Carbon %Wt 29 ASTM D-3172
Solubility in CS2 %Wt 81 ASTM D-4
Specific Gravity at 25°C —– 1.01 – 1.06 ASTM D-3289
Normal Hepthan Insolubles %Wt 79 ASTM D-3279
Color in Mass —– Black —–
Color in Streak or Powder —– Brown —–
Softening Point °C 180 – 205 ASTM D-36
Penetration at 25°C 0.1MM 0 ASTM D-5

 

Gilsonite Egypt

General Specification of Gilsonite