About Gilsonite-Natural Bitumen
Gilsonite is a solid hydrocarbon that comes from the solidification of petroleum and consists of a complex mixture of organic compounds. It is usually a dull black in the field and resembles coal, whereas the surface of freshly broken Gilsonite is shiny and resembles obsidian. Gilsonite is distinguished by its solubility in organic solvents, low density, and brown streak when rubbed on paper.Solid hydrocarbons like Gilsonite are called Natural Bitumen or Asphaltite and are found in oil-bearing sedimentary basins, commonly as veins associated with oil shale. There are dozens of Asphaltite deposits around the world and many of them have been mined.
Major component of Gilsonite is Carbon, while it contains several other elements including Nitrogen,Oxygen, Sulphur and some volatile matters. It’s unique chemical and physical properties make Gilsonite a high-performance, multipurpose additive. The low oxygen content relative to nitrogen suggests that much of the nitrogen has basic functionality.
One important factor to consider in Gilsonite is that the Ash Content. The main reason for this is that Gilsonite mining still will carry sands and rocks within the mined product. These particles in extracted Gilsonite are inseparable in some cases.
Gilsonite is generally soluble in aliphatic and aromatic solvents at ambient temperatures. The rate of solution will depend on the type of solvent, the type of mixing, and the grade of Gilsonite. Due to its unique compatibility, gilsonite is frequently used to harden softer petroleum products.
Natural Bitumen Global Locations
Natural Bitumen or Gilsonite reserves are spread over the globe in quite a lot of regions especially within basins. With regards to the geological nature of each area, natural bitumen can be found in different specifications and forms. Many such areas are well explored, for example Utah in USA, Iran, Iraq, Chaina, Canada, Trinidad & Tobacco, Venezuela and some are known to some extent. But which is found in commercial quantities only in the Utah of USA and Iran.
Gilsonite Price
Prices of Gilsonite vary per ton depending on whether it is pulverized, ash content, how it is packaged, its melting temperature, or if additives and special processing are involved.
