gilsonite

Gilsonite, also known as uintaite, is a naturally occurring hydrocarbon resin. It is a solid, black, glassy material found in the Uinta Basin of Utah and Colorado in the United States. Deposits of Gilsonite are formed by the upward migration of petroleum from subsurface oil shale deposits. It is mined from vertical veins and fractured rock formations.

The unique properties of Gilsonite include its high softening point, insolubility in water, and excellent adhesive and binding capabilities. These characteristics make it a valuable additive in a variety of industrial applications. It is widely used as a binder in asphalt for paving, particularly for its ability to improve durability and resistance to temperature fluctuations.

Gilsonite also finds application in the production of coatings, inks, and sealants. Its insulating properties are utilized in electrical applications. In the oil and gas industry, it serves as a component in drilling fluids and cementing operations. The material can be processed in various ways, including melting, pulverizing, and dissolving in solvents, to adapt it for specific uses.