After Demetrius's unsuccessful engagement with the Nabataeans, he stayed by the Dead Sea to learn more about its bitumen industry.[1] Residues of bitumen used to randomly float to the surface; inhabitants of the area, including the Nabataeans, would go out in boats to collect the samples, which were a highly priced commodity in the ancient world.[2] Demetrius reported to his father on this profitable industry and how it could be harnessed to support his imperialist ambitions. Antigonus sent an expedition led by Hieronymus to the Dead Sea.[3] The Nabataeans, furious at another Greek incursion, killed most of the expedition with fire-arrows. In light of this defeat, Antigonus abandoned his plans, as he was occupied with more important matters.[3]