Gilsonite Solubility in Common Solvents
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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.
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