What Are the Differences of Gilsonite with Oxidized Bitumen?
Understanding the differences of Gilsonite with oxidized bitumen helps engineers and buyers choose the right material. Although both are black and solid, their properties and uses vary significantly.
1. What Is Gilsonite?
Gilsonite, also known as natural asphalt, forms underground over millions of years. During this time, heat and pressure remove lighter compounds, leaving behind a hard, shiny, carbon-rich material. Unlike refined products, Gilsonite comes directly from nature without processing.
2. What Is Oxidized Bitumen?
Refineries produce oxidized bitumen by blowing air through hot bitumen. This process changes its structure and improves its resistance to temperature changes. As a result, oxidized bitumen becomes dense, matte, and flexible—ideal for industrial applications.
3. Key Physical Differences
Gilsonite looks glossy and breaks into sharp fragments. In contrast, oxidized bitumen has a smooth, matte finish and bends slightly when warm. These visual and textural differences make each suitable for different jobs.
4. Production Process
Miners extract Gilsonite directly from the earth. After extraction, workers simply crush it into usable sizes. On the other hand, oxidized bitumen goes through an industrial process. Refineries heat and aerate the base bitumen to achieve specific characteristics.
5. Applications and Uses
Gilsonite serves multiple industries. For example, manufacturers use it in oil drilling fluids, inks, paints, and construction blends. Its high carbon content strengthens formulas. Meanwhile, oxidized bitumen plays a crucial role in waterproofing, roofing, pipe coating, and sealing. Its flexibility and temperature stability make it ideal for these tasks.
6. Performance in Temperature and Environment
Gilsonite performs well under high temperatures. Its stable structure ensures durability in extreme environments. However, oxidized bitumen flows better near its softening point. Therefore, workers prefer it for low-temperature applications or when flexibility is required.
7. What About Iraqi Crystal Bitumen?
Iraqi crystal bitumen forms differently. Producers heat crude oil to over 800°C, removing all hydrocarbons. This extreme process often causes thermal damage. Consequently, the result is an overly hard and brittle material, often referred to as semi-burned bitumen or coke-like residue.
Conclusion
To summarize, Gilsonite and oxidized bitumen differ in origin, processing, and application. Gilsonite is 100% natural and rich in carbon, while oxidized bitumen is a refined and more flexible material. Depending on your project—whether you need strength, purity, or flexibility—one will be better suited than the other.