It has been used as an ingredient in paints and varnishes; in paving, waterproofing, and roofing ‘compo-unds;-‘ and in rubber manufactures.
Gilsonite is a natural solid bitumen, of well known physical properties, including a peculiar, characteristic co nchoidal fracture, found principally in certain sections of Utah. As compared with other natural bitumen in their native state, it is remarkable for its very high degree of purity.

Scientific investigations heretofore attempted have been perfunctory, abortive, and inconclusive; and exploitation commercially has not even been attempted. 

My present application, it will be understood, is in part a continuation of my application, Serial No. 195,721. filed October 10, 1917, under the title Liquid hydrocarbon. 

Its specific gravity at 7 7 F. varies over a range of, approximately, 1.040 to 1.056. 
Of the chemical nature or possibilities of ilsonite, practically nothing is a known.