Paving

Gilsonite Asphalt for Intersections and Bus Lanes

· 1 min read · Sun Gilsonite Technical Team

Translate this article:
Gilsonite Asphalt for Intersections and Bus Lanes – Strapped and wrapped gilsonite pallets ready to ship

Intersections and bus lanes are where pavements fail first. Braking, accelerating and stopped heavy vehicles cause rutting and shoving.

Why these areas are critical

  • Slow and stationary loads
  • High shear from braking and turning
  • Concentrated wheel paths

How gilsonite helps

Gilsonite stiffens the binder so the mix resists deformation under slow, heavy loads.

Rows of palletized gilsonite in the loading yard – paving application

Design approach

  • Use a stone-on-stone gradation (e.g., SMA or coarse dense mix).
  • Add 8–12% gilsonite by weight of binder.
  • Ensure good compaction.

Maintenance savings

Fewer rut repairs mean less disruption to traffic and public transport.

Why ordinary mixes fail at intersections

At signals, heavy vehicles stop and start repeatedly. Braking forces push the mix forward (shoving), and stationary loads cause deep ruts, especially in summer.

Material selection

Element Recommendation
Binder Gilsonite-modified, higher PG
Aggregate Crushed, angular, stone-on-stone skeleton
Mix type SMA or coarse dense-graded
Layer thickness Adequate for traffic

Construction tips

Compact thoroughly and avoid opening to traffic before the mat has cooled enough.

Use our asphalt modifier gilsonite. Also read improving rutting resistance.

Recommended product

Data sheet

Asphalt Modifier Grade Gilsonite

Data sheet – Asphalt Modifier Grade Gilsonite
PropertyTypical valueTest method
AppearanceBlack powder or granulesVisual
Softening point (R&B)150 – 200 °CASTM D36
Ash content, max8 %ASTM D3174
Moisture, max1 %ASTM D95
Solubility in TCE, min95 %ASTM D2042
Specific gravity @ 25°C1.04 – 1.10ASTM D70
Particle sizePowder ≤ 200 mesh / granular 1–5 mmSieve
Typical dosage4 – 12 % by weight of binder
Packing25 kg bags, meltable bags or 1 MT jumbo bags.

Typical values. The final specification is confirmed in the COA of each shipment.

Need gilsonite for your next project?

Get a quotation, samples and full documentation (TDS, MSDS, COA) within 24 hours.

Request a Quote