What Type of Material for Sandblasting Fiberglass

Rice Husk

• Rice husk sandblasting involves using rice husk, or the outermost layer of rice, to blast surfaces. The material is delivered by a pressurized blast of air to remove grease, grime and surface rust from fiberglass. Rice husk, being a natural organic abrasive, does not have adverse environmental effects.

Thermoset Plastic

• Thermoset plastic is another material used to sandblast fiberglass. Thermoset sandblasting involves using tiny beads of soft plastic -- urea, melamine or acrylic -- at high volume and low pressure to remove surface particles, primer, paint and filler, according to the authors of “Hot Rodder's Bible.” Thermoset plastic sandblasting is economical and quick but ineffective for removing rust from fiberglass surfaces.

Soda

• Another material used to sandblast fiberglass, according to the authors of the book “Auto Body Repair Technology,” is baking soda, which is also known as sodium bicarbonate. The process, also called soda blasting, involves blasting dry or wet soda under pressure to remove surface residue. Baking soda is non-toxic, biodegradable and water-soluble and its soft yet sharp crystals produce an intense cleaning action, according to the authors of the book “Lessons from My Good Old Boat.”

Corn Cob Grit

• Corn cob grit is an environmentally friendly sandblasting material that will not warp or etch fiberglass surfaces. It is less abrasive than sand, causes no environmental or health hazards, and is reusable. Corn cob grit is available in different grades and particle sizes and removes dirt, grease, paint and rust from fiberglass surfaces.

Walnut Shells

• Walnut shells are soft, abrasive sandblasting media that clean fiberglass surfaces without causing any surface damage. They are used in high pressure blasting machines for fiberglass finishing, deburring and deflashing operations. Walnut shells are recyclable, biodegradable, nontoxic and are ideal for cleaning fiberglass automotive parts, turbines and boat surfaces.