White Fused Aluminum Oxide is a premium, synthetic abrasive grit that is broadcast (sprinkled) into the surface coating of resinous floors (like epoxy or polyurethane) to create an extremely durable, slip-resistant, and long-lasting wear layer. It is the industry standard for enhancing the performance of industrial and commercial floors.
1. What is White Fused Aluminum Oxide (WFAO)?
WFAO is manufactured by fusing high-purity alumina (Al₂O₃) in an electric arc furnace. It is known for:
High Hardness: 9.0 on the Mohs scale (second only to diamond), making it exceptionally resistant to abrasion.
Sharp & Angular Grains: The particles have a blocky, crystalline shape that provides excellent traction and mechanical bonding with the coating.
High Purity & Color: It is chemically pure, appearing white, which prevents discoloration of the final floor coating.
Chemical Inertness: Resistant to most chemicals, making it suitable for harsh environments.
2. Grit Size Selection: 180, 240, 320
The grit number indicates particle size. A lower number means a coarser grit.
| Grit Size | Particle Size (Microns approx.) | Characteristics & Best Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| 180 Grit | ~ 80 | Coarse Grit. Provides maximum slip resistance and heavy-duty abrasion protection. Ideal for warehouse truck aisles, industrial loading docks, parking garage ramps, and food processing areas where severe wet or oily conditions are expected. The texture is very pronounced. |
| 240 Grit | ~ 58 | Medium Grit. The most versatile and popular choice. Offers an excellent balance of high slip resistance, wear protection, and a moderately textured surface. Used in general manufacturing, assembly areas, automotive shops, and distribution centers. |
| 320 Grit | ~ 46 | Fine Grit. Provides a smoother finish while still significantly enhancing durability and slip resistance. Ideal for areas that require easy cleaning and a less aggressive texture, such as electronics labs, pharmaceutical cleanrooms, commercial kitchens, and showroom floors that still see cart traffic. |
Pro Tip: A common professional practice is to use a blend of grits (e.g., 60% 240 and 40% 320) or a multi-layer approach (e.g., a base broadcast of 180 for strength, followed by a top broadcast of 320 for a smoother finish) to achieve a custom balance of properties.
4. Key Advantages of a WFAO Wear Layer
Unmatched Durability: Dramatically extends floor life by protecting the softer polymer coating from wear.
Superior Slip Resistance: The hard, angular particles create a highly effective anti-slip surface, even when wet or oily.
Chemical Resistance: The sealed system protects the concrete from spills, salts, and oils.
Cleanliness & Hygiene: The seamless, non-porous surface is easy to clean and meets sanitary requirements.
Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment is higher, the reduced maintenance and long service life provide an excellent return on investment.
Recommendation for Your Project
When specifying your floor, clearly communicate the operational demands to your flooring contractor:
extreme heavy traffic and wet conditions: Prioritize 180 grit.
a perfect all-around industrial floor: Choose 240 grit.
environments where cleanability and a smoother feel are key: Select 320 grit.
A professional contractor will help you select the optimal grit size and the right combination of epoxy/polyurethane binders and topcoats to ensure a successful, high-performance flooring system.