Testing Gilsonite for Paint Applications
Before using a new gilsonite grade, test it in your formulation.
Tests
- Solubility in your solvent
- Solution viscosity
- Film gloss and hardness
- Drying time
- Water and chemical resistance
- Adhesion (cross-cut)
Raw material checks
Ash, softening point, moisture and particle size from the COA.
Raw material checks
| Test | Reason |
|---|---|
| Ash | Grit and gloss |
| Softening point | Solution viscosity, film hardness |
| Solubility | Clean varnish |
| Moisture | Avoid haze |
Coating tests
Viscosity, fineness of grind, drying times, gloss, hardness (pencil or pendulum), adhesion (cross-cut), flexibility (mandrel) and water resistance.
Lot-to-lot consistency
Compare each new lot of gilsonite with a retained reference sample in a standard formulation.
Recommended product
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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