Pavement Preservation with Gilsonite-Based Products

Pavement preservation means treating roads while they are still in good condition to extend their life at low cost. Gilsonite-based products play an important role.
Common treatments
- Rejuvenating sealers – restore surface binder and colour
- Crack sealing – keeps water out of the base
- Fog seals – light emulsion coatings to seal surface voids
- Chip seals – renew the wearing surface
Why gilsonite
Gilsonite gives sealers hardness, gloss and durability, and helps them bond to aged asphalt. It also resists UV and water.

When to treat
Apply preservation treatments early — usually within the first 3–7 years of pavement life.
Benefits
Every dollar spent on timely preservation can save several dollars in later rehabilitation.
Preservation vs. rehabilitation
| Approach | When | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Preservation | Pavement still in good condition | Low |
| Rehabilitation | Significant distress | Medium to high |
| Reconstruction | Structural failure | High |
Choosing a treatment
Match the treatment to the distress: sealers for surface ageing, crack sealing for cracks, chip seals for texture and waterproofing.
Planning
Pavement management systems help agencies schedule treatments at the right time.
See sealer and filler grade gilsonite and pavement sealer guide.
Recommended product
Sealer & Filler Grade Gilsonite
| Property | Typical value | Test method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Black powder | Visual |
| Softening point (R&B) | 150 – 180 °C | ASTM D36 |
| Ash content, max | 5 % | ASTM D3174 |
| Moisture, max | 1 % | ASTM D95 |
| Solubility in toluene, min | 98 % | ASTM D2042 |
| Particle size | ≤ 200 mesh | Sieve |
| Typical dosage | Sealer: 15 – 35 % | |
| Packing | 25 kg bags palletized. | |
Typical values. The final specification is confirmed in the COA of each shipment.


