What is Gilsonite Powder?
Gilsonite powder is a fine, black, or brown powder made from naturally occurring gilsonite ore. It is a naturally occurring, non-hazardous, and non-toxic substance with a wide range of applications in a variety of industries. Gilsonite powder is produced by grinding gilsonite ore into a fine powder. The particle size of the powder can be varied depending on the desired application.
History of Gilsonite Natural Powder
The commercial history of Gilsonite began in the 19th century. Samuel H. Gilson, an American prospector, is often credited with the formal discovery of Gilsonite in the 1860s while searching for coal. He recognized its potential and started mining operations. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Gilsonite was used primarily as a waterproofing and sealing material. It was used to seal wooden boats, as an adhesive in construction, and as a lining for water tanks and pipes. Its unique properties made it popular for these purposes. In the post-World War II era, Gilsonite continued to find new applications. It was used in asphalt and roofing materials to enhance their performance. The printing industry adopted Gilsonite for high-quality inks, and the foundry and metallurgical industries used it to improve the quality of cast iron.
Gilsonite Powder Description
Gilsonite powder has several unique properties that make it valuable for a wide range of applications. It is highly soluble in aromatic hydrocarbons, such as toluene and xylene, and is also soluble in aliphatic hydrocarbons, such as mineral spirits. Gilsonite powder is also a good binder and adhesive and has excellent thermal stability.
Types of Gilsonite natural Powder
Gilsonite powder, or uintaite, can be categorized into different types or grades based on its characteristics, quality, and intended use. The specific types of Gilsonite powder are often determined by factors such as particle size, softening point, ash content, and other quality parameters. Here are some common types of Gilsonite powder:
- Natural : This is the most basic form of Gilsonite powder, which is directly mined and processed without significant modification. It typically has a particle size distribution and physical properties consistent with the natural state of the mineral.
- Flaked : In some cases, Gilsonite may be processed into flake form. Flaked Gilsonite has larger, thin, flat particles. This form is often used in certain industrial applications, such as foundry and metallurgical processes.
- Micronized : This type of Gilsonite powder is finely ground into very small particles, typically with an average particle size in the micron range (1 to 10 micrometers). Micronized Gilsonite is valued for its ability to provide excellent dispersion and adhesion properties, making it suitable for various applications, including ink and paint production.
- Modified : Some types of Gilsonite powder are chemically modified to enhance specific properties. For example, modified Gilsonite powder may have improved solubility or compatibility with certain formulations. These modifications are often made to meet the requirements of specific industries or applications.
- High Softening Point : High softening point Gilsonite powder is characterized by having a high softening point, making it suitable for applications where temperature stability and durability are essential, such as in asphalt and roofing materials.
- Low Ash Content : The ash content of Gilsonite can vary, and in some applications, low ash content is preferred to minimize impurities. Low ash content Gilsonite is often sought after for use in high-quality inks and paints.
- Coarse Particle : In certain applications, coarse particle Gilsonite powder may be preferred. It consists of larger particle sizes and is sometimes used for specialized purposes in industries like foundry and drilling fluids.
Properties of Gilsonite Powder in Different Types
- Natural Gilsonite Powder:
- Appearance: Dark black to brownish-black powder with a glossy sheen.
- Particle Size: Variable, typically a mix of different particle sizes.
- Softening Point: Varies, typically between 170°C to 240°C.
- Ash Content: Varies, but it may have a higher ash content compared to more refined types.
- Applications: Natural Gilsonite powder is used in various applications, such as asphalt, foundry, and as a drilling fluid additive.
- Flaked :
- Appearance: Thin, flat, and larger particle flakes.
- Particle Size: Consists of larger and flatter particles.
- Softening Point: Variable, depending on the specific grade.
- Ash Content: Varies, but it may have ash content typical of natural Gilsonite.
- Applications: Flaked Gilsonite is used in foundry applications and sometimes in construction materials.
- Micronized :
- Appearance: Fine powder with small particle size, typically in the micron range.
- Particle Size: Very small, with an average size ranging from 1 to 10 micrometers.
- Softening Point: Variable, depending on the specific grade.
- Ash Content: Varies, but it can be relatively low.
- Applications: Micronized Gilsonite is used in industries requiring excellent dispersion and adhesion properties, such as ink, paint, and lithium-ion batteries.
- Modified :
- Properties: Modified Gilsonite powder may have altered properties depending on the specific modifications. For example, it can be tailored to enhance solubility, compatibility, or other characteristics needed for specific applications.
- High Softening Point :
- Appearance: Similar to natural Gilsonite but with a higher softening point.
- Softening Point: High, typically above 240°C.
- Ash Content: Varies, but it may have a higher ash content than lower softening point grades.
- Applications: Used in applications requiring high-temperature stability, such as premium asphalt and roofing materials.
- Low Ash Content Gilsonite Powder:
- Appearance: Similar to natural Gilsonite, but with a focus on reduced ash content.
- Ash Content: Low, typically designed for applications requiring minimal impurities, such as high-quality inks and paints.
- Coarse Particle Gilsonite Powder:
- Appearance: Similar to natural Gilsonite, but with larger particle sizes.
- Particle Size: Coarser than micronized Gilsonite.
- Applications: Used in specialized applications where coarser particles are preferred, like foundry processes and certain drilling fluids.
Application of Gilsonite Powder in Industries Road Construction
Gilsonite is added to asphalt mixes to improve their performance. It enhances the asphalt’s durability, and resistance to rutting, and weathering, making it ideal for road construction.
Drilling Fluid Additive
Natural Bitumen powder is used as an additive to drilling fluids to reduce friction and improve lubricity. It helps prevent wellbore instability during oil and gas drilling operations
Ink and Paint Manufacturing
Gilsonite is used in the production of high-quality inks and pigments. It improves gloss, adhesion, and resistance to moisture and chemicals in inks and paints. Also, Gilsonite is used to produce inks and toners in the printing industry. It helps achieve desirable color pigmentation and adhesion properties in printed materials.
Roofing and Waterproofing
Natural bitumen powder is added to roofing materials to enhance their durability and weather resistance, making them ideal for both residential and commercial roofing applications.
Durability of Gilsonite Powder
Gilsonite powder is known for its durability and several properties that contribute to its resilience in various applications. The durability of Natural Bitumen powder is influenced by several factors:
- Chemical Stability: Gilsonite is a naturally occurring hydrocarbon resin, and its chemical structure provides stability. It is resistant to many chemicals, which contributes to its durability in various environments.
- Temperature Resistance: One of the notable characteristics of gilsonite is its high-temperature resistance. This makes it suitable for applications in the oil and gas industry, especially in drilling fluids, where it can encounter high temperatures.
- Weather Resistance: Gilsonite is often used in asphalt modification for road construction. Its weather-resistant properties contribute to the longevity and durability of asphalt mixtures, helping roads withstand the effects of weathering.
- Adhesive Strength: In applications such as adhesives, sealants, and foundry sands, gilsonite contributes to improved adhesive strength. This property enhances the durability of the products in which it is used.
- Water Resistance: Gilsonite is often employed in cement, concrete, and roofing materials due to its water-resistant properties. This contributes to the durability of structures and roofing systems in which it is incorporated.
- Corrosion Resistance: In certain applications, gilsonite’s resistance to corrosion is beneficial. For example, in the oil and gas industry, where it is used in drilling fluids, its corrosion resistance contributes to the overall durability of the drilling process.
Safety Tips of Natural Asphalt Powder
- Store Natural Bitumen Powder properly: Natural Bitumen powder should be stored in a cool, dry place in a sealed container. It is important to keep gilsonite powder away from heat and open flames.
- Avoid skin contact: Natural Bitumen powder can be irritating to the skin, so it is important to avoid contact with it. If you do come into contact with Natural Bitumen powder, wash the affected area with soap and water immediately.
- Wear personal protective equipment (PPE): This includes safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask when handling Natural Bitumen powder.
- Avoid eye contact: Natural Bitumen powder can be irritating to the eyes, so it is important to avoid contact with them. If you do get Natural Bitumen powder in your eye, flush it with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention if necessary.
Packing of Gilsonite Powder
Gilsonite powder is typically packed in :
- 25Kg bag
- 50Kg bag
- PP bag
- Jumbo bag => 750Kg to 1500 Kg
Specification of Gilsonite Powder in Different Grades
(5-10%)
| Color in Mass | Black |
|---|---|
| Color in streak or powder | Brown-Black |
| Softening point | 160-220 C |
| Moisture Content | <3 |
| Specific gravity@77℉ | 1.02-1.2 |
| Hardness (mohr s scale) | 2 |
| Penetration | 0 |
| Flash point,°C, C.O.C | >290 |
| Trace elements | <1 |
| Solubility in T.C.E Wt% | 70-85 |
| Solubility in CS2,Wt% | 70-90 |
| Ash | 5-10 |
| Fixed carbon | 25-35 |
(10-15%)
| Color in Mass | Black |
|---|---|
| Color in streak or powder | Black |
| Softening point | 200-240˚C |
| Moisture Content | <3 |
| Specific gravity@77℉ | 1.04 -1.06 |
| Hardness (mohr s scale) | 2 |
| Penetration | 0 |
| Flash point,˚C,C.O.C | 280> |
| Trace elements | <1 |
| Volatile matter | 55-70 |
| Ash | 10-15 |
| Fixed Carbone | 20-35 |
(15-20%)
| Color in mass | Black |
|---|---|
| Color in streak or powder | Black |
| Softening point | 220-260˚C |
| Moisture content | <3 |
| Specific gravity @77˚F | 1.04 -1.2 |
| Hardness (Mohr҆ s scale) | 2 |
| Penetration | 0 |
| Flash point,˚C,C.O.C | 300< |
| Trace elements | <1 |
| Solubility in T.C.E., Wt% | 60-75 |
| Solubility in CS2,Wt% | 70-85 |
| Volatile matter | 60-75 |
| Ash | 15-20 |
| Fixed Carbone | 20-35 |
(20-25%)
| Color in mass | Black |
|---|---|
| Color in streak or powder | Black |
| Softening point | 220-260˚C |
| Moisture content | <3 |
| Specific gravity @77˚F | 1.04 -1.2 |
| Hardness (Mohr҆ s scale) | 2 |
| Penetration | 0 |
| Flash point,˚C,C.O.C | 300< |
| Trace elements | <1 |
| Solubility in T.C.E., Wt% | 60-70 |
| Solubility in CS2,Wt% | 70-80 |
| Volatile matter | 60-75 |
| Ash | 20-25 |
| c | 20-35 |
