Olivine is a naturally occurring magnesium-iron silicate which is a safe alternative to silica sand as an abrasive for cleaning brick and stone.
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Safety data |
Hard
The Mohs hardness is greater than 7, Olivine is thus capable of producing an Sa3 finish on steelwork.
Dense
The high specific gravity (3.3) ensures that the particles impacting on the surface have a high energy to facilitate dirt and scale removal.
Sharp
The angular particle shape provides a rapid cleaning action on all types of substrate.
Non-metallic
Finer grades of Olivine are suitable for use on stainless steel and non-ferrous metals for example aluminium.
Safe
All the silica is present in a combined form and therefore Olivine does not present a silicosis hazard .
Eco-friendly
Olivine is an inert and non-toxic naturally occurring mineral abrasive which has been approved in many areas as suitable for use over rivers and watercourses. Furthermore, the pale green colour is found to be less objectionable than mineral slag abrasives for instance which tend to be dark in colour.
Queen Elizabeth II bridge, Belfast
Standard Grades
Grade | Size Range | Application |
Medium | 0.2 – 1.0mm | Cleaning stone and brickwork, removing laitance from concrete. Cleaning stainless steel and special alloys to provide a fine profile prior to coating application or a decorative satin finish. |
Fine | 0.125 – 0.5mm | Cleaning of very fine or intricate stonework, graffiti removal, removal of weld stain from stainless steel food and brewery vessels. |
Extra Fine | 0.09 – 0.25mm | Restoration of the finest stonework and sculptures in both stone and metal. |