
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 Vietnam
Gilsonite, a naturally occurring solid hydrocarbon, plays a significant role in Vietnam’s industrial and construction sectors. Its unique properties make it a valuable material for various applications.
- Enhancing Vietnam’s Road Construction and Asphalt Industry
Vietnam’s growing infrastructure requires high-performance materials, and Gilsonite is widely used as an additive in asphalt mixes to:
– Increase durability in tropical climates with high humidity and heavy rainfall.
– Improve adhesion between aggregates and asphalt, reducing maintenance costs.
– Enhance resistance to wear, oxidation, and rutting, making roads more resilient. - Application in Oil & Gas Exploration
Vietnam has an active oil and gas sector, and Gilsonite is used in:
– Drilling fluids to reduce fluid loss and improve wellbore stability.
– Cementing operations to enhance the strength and sealing of oil wells. - Use in Waterproofing and Construction Materials
– Gilsonite is an essential component in sealants and waterproofing membranes, protecting buildings from moisture damage.
– It enhances the durability of concrete in marine and industrial environments. - Role in Paints, Coatings, and Printing Inks
Vietnam’s manufacturing sector benefits from Gilsonite in:
– Paint and coatings production, where it improves durability, UV resistance, and adhesion.
– Printing ink formulations, where it enhances color intensity and drying speed. - Cost-Effectiveness and Environmental Benefits
– As a natural and cost-effective alternative to synthetic petroleum-based products, Gilsonite helps industries optimize costs.
– Its low environmental impact makes it an attractive option for sustainable development.
Local and main suppliers of Gilsonite Vietnam
Vietnam imports Gilsonite from various international suppliers, as the country does not have significant local production. Notable suppliers include:
International Suppliers Serving Vietnam
*Zumrut Kimya: A Leading Supplier of Gilsonite in Vietnam*
Introduction
Zumrut International Kimia is a premier global supplier of Gilsonite, serving industries across Vietnam. 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 Vietnam
With a strong global distribution network, Zumrut Kimia ensures the seamless supply of high-quality Gilsonite to Vietnam.
Packaging of Gilsonite Vietnam
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 Vietnam discharge
For importing Gilsonite into Vietnam, key ports of discharge include:
- Cái Mép – Thị Vải Port (Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province)
– One of Vietnam’s deep-water ports, capable of handling large bulk shipments.
– Ideal for international imports, including petroleum-based products like Gilsonite. - Hai Phong Port
– The largest port in Northern Vietnam, serving Hanoi and nearby industrial zones.
– Suitable for imports from China, India, and the Middle East. - Saigon Port (Ho Chi Minh City)
– A major trading hub for Southern Vietnam.
– Well-equipped for handling containerized and bulk cargo, including Gilsonite. - Da Nang Port
– The main port in Central Vietnam, connecting to key economic regions.
– Ideal for shipments from Thailand, Malaysia, and other ASEAN countries. - Quy Nhon Port
– Handles a variety of bulk and breakbulk cargo, including minerals and industrial materials.
– Convenient for supplying Vietnam’s oil and gas industry.
General Specification of Gilsonite Vietnam
| 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 |



