4422. Gilsonite

Nomenclature

CAS number: 12002-43-6
Uintahite; uintaite.

Description and references

Naturally occurring, solid hydrocarbon classified as an asphaltite. Coal-like mineral found almost exclusively in the Uinta valley, near Fort Duchesne, Utah: E. S. Dana, A System of Mineralogy (John Wiley, New York, 6th ed., 1901) p 1020. Review: K. R. Neel in Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology vol. 11 (John Wiley & Sons, New York, 3rd ed., 1980) pp 803-806. Review of uses and mining methods: D. Jackson, Eng. Min. J. 182, 88-91 (July, 1981); of health effects from occupational exposure: D. G. Keimig et al., Am. J. Ind. Med. 11, 287-296 (1987); G. J. Kullman et al., Am. Ind. Hyg. Assoc. J. 50, 413-418 (1989).

Properties

Black, lustrous masses; streak and powder a rich brown. Softening point: 160°. d1515 1.04. Specific heat (J/kg): 2180 (149°); 2550 (260°). Viscosity (cP): 500 (260°); 140 (316°). Nonconductor of electricity. Sol in heavy lubricating petroleum, warm oil of turpentine, and alc.

Use

In automotive body sealers, photogravure inks, anticorrosive paints, oil drilling fluids, and in nuclear-grade graphite.