Ottawa Silica Sand (50 lb.)

The common abrasive used with the Falling Sand Tester, supplied in a 50 lb. bag.

Although a variety of abrasive particles have been used, silica sand and various grades of silicon carbide remain the most popular. To ensure reproducible results, abrasives must be graded to a particular sieve size.

Silica sand is typically characterized by roundness of grains and produces a slower abrasion rate in organic coatings.

It has been noted that for a dry film thickness of 3 mil, many of the older coatings would require 20 to 200 liters of silica sand to achieve failure. Today's most durable coatings can require up to more than 600 liters of sand to wear down.