Independent research has shown that abrasive selection can significantly impact coating adhesion, corrosion resistance, and long-term asset protection.
Abrasive selection is a critical variable in coating performance, yet it's often treated as a commodity rather than a controllable factor. Specs define cleanliness level and anchor profile, but they rarely define the abrasive itself. This could mean your coating's first variable gets decided without you and that matters more than most people realize.
Three independent AMPP papers tested multiple abrasive types against high-performance coatings in hot water immersion, cathodic disbondment, and pull-off adhesion. Across all three studies, nickel slag consistently ranked as the top performers; outperforming coal slag, glass grit, garnet, and steel abrasives in long-term immersion and corrosion resistance.
To cite AMPP Paper C2025-00038, the study concluded:
"Among the tested abrasives, mineral (nickel) slag consistently demonstrated superior performance in both adhesion and corrosion resistance when compared to the other abrasives studied."
Emerald Blast® (MineralTech) is a nickel slag abrasive that went through the full third-party qualification abrasive testing with witnessed blasting, independent lab testing, and AMPP certification.
Evaluated coating performance across multiple abrasive types under demanding service conditions.
Examined abrasive effects on coating adhesion and long-term durability.
Studied abrasive influence on corrosion resistance and coating system performance.
Whether you're evaluating abrasive options for NAVSEA work, shipyard maintenance, offshore assets, or industrial corrosion control, our team can help review your specifications, discuss performance requirements, and identify the best abrasive solution for your project.
Please contact our team with questions.
