Gilsonite Solubility in Common Solvents
Translate this article:
Choosing the right solvent is the first step in formulating a gilsonite coating.
Good solvents
- Toluene and xylene
- Aromatic naphthas
- Trichloroethylene
- Mineral spirits (partial to good, depends on grade)
- Hot drying oils
Poor solvents
- Water
- Alcohols
- Acetone and most ketones
- Glycols
Practical notes
- Lower softening point grades dissolve more easily in aliphatic solvents.
- Heat and agitation speed dissolution.
- Pre-dissolve gilsonite before adding pigments.
Practical solubility table
| Solvent | Gilsonite solubility | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Toluene, xylene | Very good | Fast dissolution |
| Aromatic naphtha (high-flash) | Very good | Common in industrial paints |
| Mineral spirits (white spirit) | Partial to good | Depends on softening point |
| Trichloroethylene | Very good | Used in lab tests |
| Hot linseed or tung oil | Good | Used in traditional varnishes |
| Alcohols, ketones | Poor | Not suitable alone |
| Water | Insoluble | Use emulsions |
Tips for faster dissolution
- Use finer grades such as micronized gilsonite.
- Warm the solvent gently with good ventilation.
- Add gilsonite gradually to a vortex.
Safety
Most good solvents for gilsonite are flammable. Work in ventilated areas away from ignition sources.
See paint grade gilsonite. Related: gilsonite in paints.
Recommended product
Data sheet
Ink & Paint Grade Gilsonite
| Property | Typical value | Test method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Dark brown–black powder | Visual |
| Softening point (R&B) | 150 – 180 °C | ASTM D36 |
| Ash content, max | 3 % | ASTM D3174 |
| Moisture, max | 1 % | ASTM D95 |
| Solubility in toluene, min | 99 % | ASTM D2042 |
| Particle size | 200 – 600 mesh | Sieve |
| Typical dosage | Ink varnish: 20–40 % in oil | |
| Packing | 25 kg paper bags with PE liner, palletized. | |
Typical values. The final specification is confirmed in the COA of each shipment.
Related articles
Paint
Gilsonite in Wood Stains and Preservatives
Gilsonite gives rich brown-to-black tones in wood stains and adds water repellence. Dilute gilsonite solutions give walnut and…
Paint
Gilsonite in Marine and Ship Coatings
Bituminous coatings have long been used on ship hulls, ballast tanks and marine structures. Modern specifications often require…
Paint
Making Gilsonite Varnish for Paints
A gilsonite varnish simplifies paint production. 30–50% solids in solvent. The varnish can be blended with alkyds, oils…