Aluminum Oxide High Wear Abrasion Resistant Additive | 220 Grit | 325 Grit for Urethane & Polyaspartic

SPECIFICATIONS

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION

What is a high wear aluminum oxide additive?

A high wear aluminum oxide additive is a fine, ultra-hard mineral additive designed to improve the abrasion resistance and durability of urethane and polyaspartic coatings. Unlike anti-slip aggregates, it is engineered to extend coating life without creating an aggressive texture.

How is high wear aluminum oxide different from anti-slip aluminum oxide?

The key difference is purpose and grit size:

• High Wear Aluminum Oxide (220 or 325 grit):
  • Focuses on durability and wear resistance
  • Minimal texture change
  • Maintains a smoother, more decorative finish
• Anti-Slip Aluminum Oxide (16–54 grit):
  • Designed for traction and safety
  • Creates a rough, aggressive surface profile

High wear additives are ideal when you want longer-lasting floors without a harsh, sandpaper-like feel.

Does high wear aluminum oxide make floors non-slip?

Not primarily. High wear aluminum oxide is not designed as a dedicated anti-slip additive. While it may slightly increase surface friction depending on loading, it is mainly used to protect coatings from abrasion and wear, not to meet safety traction standards.

If slip resistance is required, a coarser anti-slip additive should be used instead or in combination. For assistance figuring out what is the best for YOUR project reach out to us as at 630-675-4509 or [email protected]/

What coatings can this additive be used with?

High wear aluminum oxide is compatible with:

• Polyaspartic coatings
• Urethane / polyurethane coatings
• Epoxy topcoats (in some systems)

It is especially effective in thin film coating systems, where added durability is critical. It is not recommended as an anti-slip agent or for high build coatings.

Why use a high wear additive instead of just applying more coating?

Adding more coating thickness does not always improve durability. A high wear additive:

• Reinforces the coating internally
• Improves resistance to scratching, scuffing, and traffic wear
• Helps coatings last longer in high-traffic environments

Aluminum oxide is extremely hard (Mohs ~9), making it ideal for protecting surfaces under heavy use.

Where is high wear aluminum oxide typically used?

Common applications include:

• Commercial floors and retail spaces
• Industrial facilities and warehouses
• Parking structures and garages
• Stairs, Decks, Balconys
• Entrance & Exit Areas

These environments benefit from longer coating life and reduced maintenance cycles.

Will this change the appearance of my coating?

Yes—slightly.

• Can reduce gloss levels
• May create a subtle texture depending on dosage
• Finer grit (325) = less visible
• Coarser grit (220) = more noticeable

For clear or decorative systems, always test first to ensure the desired finish.

How much high wear aluminum oxide should I add per gallon?

Typical usage is:

• 1 to 1.5 lbs per gallon of coating

Adjust based on:

• Desired durability
• Appearance preferences
• Coating system type

Always mix thoroughly and re-stir during application to maintain consistency.

Does the additive affect coating performance or chemistry?

No—when used properly, it:

• Does not change cure chemistry
• Does not impact adhesion
• Becomes fully bonded within the coating matrix

It enhances performance without compromising the original coating properties.

Is high wear aluminum oxide better than other additives like polybeads or silica?

It depends on your goal:

• Aluminum Oxide (High Wear): Best for durability and longevity
• Polybeads: Better for cleanability and light slip resistance
• Silica: Budget-friendly but less durable
• Anti-Slip Aluminum Oxide: Tough Non-skid floor for heaviest anti-slip

Aluminum oxide is one of the hardest and longest-lasting additives available, making it ideal for demanding environments.  For help deciding what is best for YOUR project reach out to us at 630-675-4509 or [email protected].

Can I combine high wear aluminum oxide with an anti-slip additive?

Yes—and this is a best practice for many systems:

• Use high wear additive for durability
• Add anti-slip aggregate for safety

This combination gives you both long-term performance and proper traction.

Does this work in high-traffic or industrial environments?

Absolutely. High wear aluminum oxide is specifically designed for:

• Forklift traffic
• Vehicle traffic
• Heavy foot traffic
• Abrasive environments

It helps coatings resist premature wear, scratching, and surface breakdown.

What grit size should I choose: 220 vs 325?

• 220 grit:
  • More durability boost
  • Slightly more visible texture
• 325 grit:
  • Smoother finish
  • Better for decorative or clear coatings

Choosing the right grit depends on balancing appearance vs. performance.

Is high wear aluminum oxide good for polyaspartic coatings?

Yes—polyaspartic coatings are already highly durable, but adding high wear aluminum oxide:

• Further increases abrasion resistance
• Extends lifespan in high-use environments
• Helps maintain performance in commercial and industrial settings

Does this additive help extend coating lifespan?

Yes. By reinforcing the coating with extremely hard particles, it:

• Reduces surface wear
• Slows down degradation
• Extends recoat cycles

This can significantly lower long-term maintenance costs.