Silicon Carbide Abrasives
Also known by its chemical compound, SiC, Silicon Carbide is a semiconductor containing silicon and carbon. It occurs in nature as a very rare mineral called moissanite, though synthetic Silicon Carbide has been mass produced as an abrasive material since 1893. When its grains are bonded together in an electric arc furnace, the resulting product is an extremely hard material with excellent thermal conductivity, thermal shock resistance, and chemically inert abrasion resistance.
Used in applications requiring high endurance, such as ballistic panels and bulletproof vests, Silicon Carbide is usually available as a black or green microgrit or powder, or as a ready-to-press powder.
SurfacePrep supplies a variety of sizes and compositions of Silicon Carbide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is silicon carbide?
Silicon carbide (SiC) is a hard, synthetic abrasive compound made of silicon and carbon. It has been mass-produced as an abrasive material since 1893 and is prized for its extreme hardness (Mohs 9.0+), thermal shock resistance, and chemically inert abrasion resistance. SurfacePrep supplies silicon carbide in a variety of sizes and compositions for both abrasive and engineered refractory applications.
What is the difference between black and green silicon carbide abrasive?
Both are high-purity SiC abrasives, but they have distinct properties suited to different jobs:
- Black silicon carbide (Mohs 9.0+): Used for lapping, refractory applications, precision ceramics, composite materials, and wiresaw semiconductor cutting.
- Green silicon carbide (Mohs 9.4): A higher-purity, more friable crystal. Preferred for grinding hard alloys where cool cutting is critical, as well as armor manufacturing, thermal management, and wiresaw applications.
Not sure which is right for your process? Contact a SurfacePrep specialist.
What forms of silicon carbide powder does SurfacePrep offer?
SurfacePrep carries SiC powder in three main forms:
- Black silicon carbide powder (microgrit)
- Green silicon carbide powder (microgrit)
- Ready-to-press SiC powder (formulated with sintering additives and binders for pressed ceramic parts)
All silicon carbide powders are water classified and graded to exacting standards.
What industries and applications use silicon carbide abrasive?
SiC abrasive is used across a wide range of demanding applications, including:
- Armor and ballistic panel manufacturing
- Lapping and precision grinding
- Ceramic wear parts and refractory components
- Wiresaw cutting of semiconductor and sapphire materials
- Thermal management components
- High-temperature sensors and sintered technical ceramics
SurfacePrep’s team of ceramic engineers can help you identify the right silicon carbide compound and particle size for your specific application.
