Abrasives, often mineral based, are used to shape or finish a wide range of materials through a sanding or rubbing action. (Wikipedia).
Abrasives come in a number of shapes, sizes and materials; each is designed for a specific finish. For instance, sandpaper is a type of coated abrasive that consists of paper or cloth glued to abrasive grains.
How Sand Paper is Made
Glue Used to Manufacture Abrasives
Commonly, the glue used for manufacturing abrasives is hide glue (also known as animal glue or protein glue).
It is an all-natural, recyclable and non-toxic glue formula. When reintroduced into the natural environment, hide glue will start to break down and biodegrade within a few weeks.
Hide glue can come in different forms: granular or cake.
When using hide glue in granular form, it is combined with water before use. In cake form, the glue is heated prior to application and no water is required. Hide glue also comes in varying gram strengths. Gram strength is the measure of the glues strength and open time. The average gram strength used in abrasive manufacturing is between 175-250.
Learn more about the hide glue (animal glue) we produce in our North Carolina facility.
