Natural Asphalts in Agricultural Products
Bituminous products have been used for tree wound dressings, grafting compounds and protective coatings for posts.
Gilsonite benefits
Water resistance and adhesion.
Traditional uses
- Tree wound dressings – sealing pruning cuts against moisture
- Grafting compounds – holding and protecting grafts
- Post and fence coatings – protecting buried wood from rot
- Waterproof coatings for irrigation structures
Why natural asphalt
Gilsonite-based coatings are water-resistant, adhere well to wood and stay in place in warm weather.
Modern considerations
Many growers now use specialised horticultural products with tested plant safety. If you formulate a dressing or coating, check local regulations and plant compatibility.
Other agricultural links
Gilsonite is also used in coatings for agricultural machinery and in waterproofing for farm buildings and tanks.
See gilsonite powder.
Recommended product
Gilsonite Powder
| Property | Typical value | Test method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Black to dark brown powder | Visual |
| Particle size | 100 – 200 mesh | Sieve |
| Softening point (R&B) | 150 – 220 °C | ASTM D36 |
| Ash content, max | 5 % | ASTM D3174 |
| Moisture, max | 1 % | ASTM D95 |
| Volatile matter | 55 – 75 % | ASTM D3175 |
| Solubility in toluene, min | 99 % | ASTM D2042 |
| Specific gravity @ 25°C | 1.04 – 1.10 | ASTM D70 |
| Typical dosage | Drilling 2–8 lb/bbl · asphalt 4–12 % of binder · foundry 0.3–1.0 % | |
| Packing | 25 kg multi-wall paper or PP bags, palletized and stretch-wrapped; 1 MT jumbo bags. | |
Typical values. The final specification is confirmed in the COA of each shipment.
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