
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 UAE
Key Industries Using Gilsonite in the UAE
1. Oil & Gas Industry
- The UAE, being one of the world’s top oil producers, heavily relies on Gilsonite as a drilling fluid additive.
- It acts as a loss circulation material (LCM) and shale stabilizer, especially in high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) drilling conditions.
- Benefits include improved wellbore stability, reduced fluid loss, and lower overall drilling costs.
2. Asphalt and Road Construction
- Gilsonite is widely used to modify asphalt binders, making roads in the UAE more resistant to heat, oxidation, and heavy traffic loads.
- It enhances rutting resistance and extends pavement life, which is vital for the UAE’s extensive infrastructure and road network.
- Particularly beneficial in the UAE’s extreme desert climate, where high temperatures can degrade conventional asphalt.
3. Paints and Coatings
- Gilsonite improves water resistance, adhesion, and durability in protective coatings and industrial paints.
- Used in marine and corrosion-resistant coatings, which are essential in the UAE’s coastal and industrial areas.
4. Ink and Printing
- Acts as a cost-effective, high-quality resin in printing inks, especially for packaging and publication industries.
- Its excellent carbon-black dispersion enhances color intensity and print quality.
5. Foundry and Metallurgy
- In steel and foundry applications, Gilsonite serves as a carbon additive and binder, improving mold quality and surface finish.
- Helps reduce emissions and enhances product yield.
Why Gilsonite Is Especially Valuable in the UAE
- Strategic location: The UAE serves as a logistics and re-export hub, making it a central market for Gilsonite distribution in the GCC and Africa.
- Infrastructure investment: The government’s focus on smart cities, transportation, and oilfield development creates high demand.
- Environmental regulations: Gilsonite’s natural and eco-friendly characteristics are aligned with the UAE’s move toward sustainable practices in construction and energy.
Local and main suppliers of Gilsonite UAE
- Gilsonite.ae (Dubai Gilsonite)
- WASIT Group
International Suppliers Serving UAE:
*Zumrut Kimya: A Leading Supplier of Gilsonite in UAE*
Introduction
Zumrut International Kimia is a premier global supplier of Gilsonite, serving industries across UAE. 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 UAE
With a strong global distribution network, Zumrut Kimia ensures the seamless supply of high-quality Gilsonite to UAE.
Why Choose Zumrut Kimia?
High-Quality Products: Zumrut Kimia sources premium-grade Gilsonite from the best mines, ensuring consistent purity and performance.
Custom Solutions: The company offers tailor-made formulations to meet the specific needs of UAE industries.
Reliable Supply Chain: With efficient logistics and a well-established distribution network, Zumrut Kimia ensures timely deliveries and uninterrupted supply.
Sustainable Practices: The company is committed to environmentally responsible mining and production, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Packaging of Supplier Gilsonite UAE
- 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 Supplier Gilsonite UAE discharge
- Jebel Ali Port – Dubai
Largest and most important port in the Middle East - Khalifa Port – Abu Dhabi
Advanced deep-water port designed for high-volume cargo
General Specification of Supplier Gilsonite UAE
| 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 |
General Specification of Gilsonite



