
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 Kuwait
Gilsonite, a natural bitumen or asphaltite, is a valuable industrial material with diverse applications across multiple sectors. In Kuwait, a country with a strong petrochemical and construction industry, the demand for Gilsonite is rising due to its unique properties and benefits.
Key Applications of Gilsonite in Kuwait
- Oil and Gas Industry
Kuwait, one of the world’s leading oil producers, heavily relies on efficient drilling operations. Gilsonite is used in drilling fluids to:
Reduce fluid loss in high-pressure and high-temperature wells.
Improve wellbore stability in complex drilling environments.
Act as a lubricant to reduce friction and enhance drilling efficiency. - Asphalt and Road Construction
Kuwait’s expanding infrastructure projects require durable asphalt formulations. Gilsonite serves as a powerful asphalt modifier, offering:
Increased resistance to rutting, cracking, and high temperatures.
Enhanced durability for roads, highways, and airport runways.
Cost savings by reducing the need for frequent maintenance. - Waterproofing and Coatings
Due to Kuwait’s extreme climate, waterproofing and protective coatings are essential for buildings and industrial structures. Gilsonite is used in: Roof coatings for enhanced UV and moisture resistance.
Pipe coatings in the oil and gas sector to prevent corrosion.
Industrial paints and inks, improving adhesion and longevity. - Foundry and Casting Industry
Gilsonite is widely used in foundry mold production, helping improve:
Surface smoothness of cast metal products.
Strength and quality of molding sands.
Efficiency in metal casting processes used in Kuwait’s industrial sector. - Rubber and Plastic Manufacturing
Kuwait’s growing automotive and construction industries rely on high-performance rubber and plastic materials. Gilsonite enhances:
Strength and elasticity in rubber-based products like tires and seals.
Durability and thermal resistance in plastic components.
Local and main suppliers of Gilsonite Kuwait
Gilsonite, a natural asphalt or asphaltite, is utilized in various industries in Kuwait, including oil and gas drilling, asphalt production, and manufacturing. Several suppliers, both local and international, cater to the demand for Gilsonite in Kuwait.
Local Suppliers in Kuwait:
Delmar Kuwait Petroleum: This company offers Gilsonite products suitable for applications such as oil well drilling and asphalt modification.
International Suppliers Serving Kuwait:
*Zumrut Kimya: A Leading Supplier of Gilsonite in Kuwait*
Introduction
Zumrut International Kimia is a premier global supplier of Gilsonite, serving industries across Kuwait. 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 Kuwait
With a strong global distribution network, Zumrut Kimia ensures the seamless supply of high-quality Gilsonite to Kuwait.
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 Kuwait 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 Gilsonite Kuwait
- 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 Kuwait discharge
Gilsonite, also known as natural bitumen or asphaltite, is a hydrocarbon resin utilized in various industrial applications, including drilling fluids, asphalt modification, and ink production. In Kuwait, the import and distribution of Gilsonite are facilitated through several key ports equipped to handle petroleum products and related materials.
Major Ports in Kuwait for Gilsonite Discharge:
- Shuwaikh Port:
Located in Kuwait City, Shuwaikh Port is the country’s main commercial port. It handles a wide range of cargo, including bulk petroleum products, making it a primary entry point for Gilsonite imports. - Shuaiba Port:
Situated approximately 45 kilometers south of Kuwait City, Shuaiba Port specializes in industrial and petrochemical products. Its facilities are well-suited for managing bulk imports like Gilsonite, serving the nearby industrial areas. - Mina Al-Ahmadi Port:
Primarily focused on oil exports, Mina Al-Ahmadi also accommodates imports related to the petroleum industry. Its infrastructure supports the handling of materials such as Gilsonite, essential for various industrial processes.
General Specification of Supplier Gilsonite Kuwait
| 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



