
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.

The Importance of Gilsonite in China
Gilsonite, a naturally occurring solid hydrocarbon, plays a vital role in China’s industrial and construction sectors. As one of the largest consumers of industrial materials, China heavily relies on Gilsonite for its unique properties in various applications.
- Road Construction and Asphalt Industry
With China’s extensive road and highway infrastructure projects, Gilsonite is a key additive in asphalt mixes to:
– Enhance road durability under high traffic and extreme weather conditions.
– Improve resistance to moisture, oxidation, and rutting.
– Reduce maintenance costs by increasing pavement lifespan. - Oil & Gas Exploration and Drilling
China is a major player in the oil and gas industry, where Gilsonite is used in:
– Drilling fluids to control fluid loss and strengthen wellbore stability.
– Cementing applications to improve the strength of well casings.
– Shale stabilization, reducing drilling issues in deep wells. - Paints, Coatings, and Inks Manufacturing
China’s manufacturing sector benefits from Gilsonite as a cost-effective additive in:
– High-performance paints and coatings, improving adhesion, durability, and chemical resistance.
– Printing inks, where Gilsonite enhances gloss, drying speed, and water resistance. - Waterproofing and Construction Materials
– Used in roofing, waterproofing membranes, and sealants for industrial and commercial buildings.
– Enhances concrete durability, making structures more resistant to weathering and chemicals. - Foundry and Metallurgy Industry
– In foundries, Gilsonite acts as a carbon additive in molding sands, improving the quality of cast metals.
– Used in metallurgical processes to enhance coke and electrode performance. - Cost-Effectiveness and Environmental Benefits
– Cheaper alternative to synthetic petroleum-based products.
– Considered a natural and eco-friendly solution in various industrial applications. - China’s Role as a Major Gilsonite Importer
– China does not have significant local reserves of Gilsonite and mainly imports from Iran, the USA, and Turkey. Given its booming construction, oil & gas, and industrial sectors, demand for Gilsonite continues to grow.
Local and main suppliers of Gilsonite China
In China, several companies specialize in the production and supply of Gilsonite, also known as natural asphalt. Notable suppliers include:
- Hebei Yukuang New Materials Co., Ltd.
- Hebei Saichuang New Material Technology Co., Ltd.
- Hebei Fengtaiyuan Energy Technology Co., Ltd.
International Suppliers Serving China
*Zumrut Kimya: A Leading Supplier of Gilsonite in China*
Introduction
Zumrut International Kimia is a premier global supplier of Gilsonite, serving industries across China. 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 China
With a strong global distribution network, Zumrut Kimia ensures the seamless supply of high-quality Gilsonite to China.
Packaging of Gilsonite China
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 China discharge
For importing Gilsonite into China, the key ports of discharge include:
- Shanghai Port
Largest and busiest port in China, handling massive bulk and containerized cargo.
Ideal for Gilsonite imports from Iran, Turkey, and the USA. - Tianjin Port
Major port in Northern China, serving Beijing and industrial hubs.
Suitable for bulk petroleum-based imports, including Gilsonite. - Qingdao Port
Important trade hub for East China, handling minerals, bitumen, and industrial materials.
Serves Shandong province, a key industrial zone. - Guangzhou Port
A major southern China port, facilitating imports to Guangdong and nearby regions.
Well-equipped for bitumen, asphalt, and oil-related products. - Dalian Port
Deep-water port in Northeast China, serving the oil and gas sector.
Suitable for Gilsonite shipments supporting petroleum and construction industries. - Ningbo-Zhoushan Port
One of China’s largest bulk cargo ports, ideal for industrial raw materials.
Preferred for handling large shipments of Gilsonite. - Shenzhen Port
Important southern Chinese port, serving as a gateway for ASEAN and Middle Eastern imports.
Well-suited for Gilsonite used in construction and oil drilling applications.
General Specification of Gilsonite China
| 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 |



