Natural Bitumen (Gilsonite)

Uintahite, also known as Gilsonite, is an extraordinary natural hydrocarbon found in the Uintah Basin, Utah. Resembling hard petroleum asphalt, this unique substance, with its lustrous black appearance, is more than just a geological marvel—it’s a versatile component revolutionizing various industries.

Applications of Uintahite:

  1. Pavement Alchemy in Asphalt Mixes: Uintahite, resembling obsidian but crushable into a dark brown powder, takes center stage in asphalt and road construction. This natural asphalt, when blended into mixes, elevates asphalt grades, offering superior stability, reduced deformation, and increased resistance to water stripping. Unlike other modifiers, Uintahite seamlessly incorporates into blends without the need for high shear milling.
  2. Drilling Dynamics in Oil and Gas Exploration: In the oil and gas industry, Uintahite is a stalwart in drilling operations. Addressing challenges like borehole instability and enhancing lubricity, it acts as a bridging agent to counteract differential pressure sticking. Evidence supports its effectiveness in minimizing hole collapse and mitigating stuck pipe problems. Uintahite’s role extends to water-based, oil-based, and synthetic-based mud systems, proving highly effective globally.
  3. Foundry Magic: In foundry applications, Uintahite joins forces with coal to enhance mold release and improve the finish of metal castings. This additive ensures quality in molded parts, showcasing Uintahite’s versatility beyond traditional applications.
  4. Chemical Charm: Uintahite’s unique physical and chemical properties make it a sought-after component in various chemical applications. From binders to coatings, it finds applications across metallurgical, wood product, refractory, and other industries, showcasing its versatility.
  5. Inks and Paints Renaissance: Gilsonite Resin, a derivative, takes the stage in inks and paints. Acting as a wetting agent for carbon black inks, it competes favorably with petroleum-based hydrocarbon resins and phenolic resins. Different concentrations contribute to superior gloss and tack properties in news inks, while special grades serve as additives in asphaltic paints and varnishes.

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Uintahite Specification Analysis:

PropertyValueTest Method
Ash Content2.0 – 10.0 %WtASTM D-3174
Moisture Content1.0 – 3.0 %WtASTM D-3173
Volatile Matter63.0 %WtASTM D-3175
Fixed Carbon29.0 %WtASTM D-3172
Solubility in CS281.0 %WtASTM D-4
Specific Gravity at 25°C1.01 – 1.06ASTM D-3289
Normal Heptane Insolubles79.0 %WtASTM D-3279
Color in MassBlack
Color in Streak or PowderBrown
Softening Point180 – 205 °CASTM D-36
Penetration at 25°C0.1MM0.0

Elemental Analysis:

Element%WtTest Method
Carbon74.0ASTM D-5291
Hydrogen9.1ASTM D-5291
Nitrogen1.67ASTM D-5291
Oxygen3.1ASTM D-5291
Sulphur0.5Leco(S) Analyzer
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