
- What is Gilsonite (Natural Bitumen)?
- Applications of Gilsonite:
- Major Gilsonite Mines:
- The Importance of Gilsonite in Saudi Arabia
- Local and main suppliers of Gilsonite Saudi Arabia
- Packaging of Supplier Gilsonite Saudi Arabia
- Key ports for Supplier Gilsonite Saudi Arabia discharge
- General Specification of Supplier Gilsonite Saudi Arabia
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 Saudi Arabia
Key Industries Benefiting from Gilsonite in Saudi Arabia
1. Oil & Gas Drilling
- As a global oil leader, Saudi Arabia uses Gilsonite extensively in drilling mud systems.
- Functions as a fluid loss control agent, shale stabilizer, and loss circulation material (LCM).
- Enhances performance in HPHT (high-pressure, high-temperature) wells typical of Saudi oil fields.
- Improves wellbore stability and reduces non-productive time during drilling.
2. Asphalt and Road Construction
- Gilsonite-modified asphalt is increasingly important in Saudi road infrastructure projects, especially in extreme desert conditions.
- Enhances rutting resistance, oxidation stability, and overall durability of asphalt pavements.
- Ideal for highways, airports, and logistics corridors being developed under Vision 2030.
3.Foundry & Metallurgy
- Used as a carbon additive and binder in the production of cast iron and steel components.
- Improves mold quality, reduces emissions, and enhances surface finish of cast products.
- Supports Saudi Arabia’s push toward domestic manufacturing capacity.
4.Paints, Coatings & Printing Inks
- Acts as a resin to improve adhesion, water resistance, and gloss in paints and industrial coatings.
- Popular in marine coatings, industrial paints, and printing inks used in packaging sectors.
5.Chemical and Industrial Applications
- Used in sealants, adhesives, waterproofing membranes, batteries, and insulation materials.
- Its high softening point and stability make it ideal for chemical resistance applications.
Local and main suppliers of Gilsonite Saudi Arabia
- Drilling Fluid Factory
- Energy Industry Equipment Factory (EIEF)
- Oil Chemistry Industrial Company (OilChem)
International Suppliers Serving Saudi Arabia:
*Zumrut Kimya: A Leading Supplier of Gilsonite in Saudi Arabia*
Introduction
Zumrut International Kimia is a premier global supplier of Gilsonite, serving industries across Saudi Arabia. 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 Saudi Arabia
With a strong global distribution network, Zumrut Kimia ensures the seamless supply of high-quality Gilsonite to Saudi Arabia.
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 Saudi Arabia 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 Saudi Arabia
- 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 Saudi Arabia discharge
- Dammam – King Abdulaziz Port (Eastern Province)
Region: Eastern Province, Persian Gulf - Jeddah Islamic Port (Western Province)
Region: Red Sea Coast, near Mecca - Yanbu Commercial Port
Region: Red Sea Coast
General Specification of Supplier Gilsonite Saudi Arabia
| 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 |



