There is a wide selection of abrasives to choose from when selecting a lapping and polishing process. Selecting an
abrasive is dependent upon the specimen hardness, desired surface finish, desired removal rate, lifetime, and price.
There are four basic types of abrasives that are used in lapping and polishing processes: silicon carbide (SiC),
aluminum oxide or alumina (Al2O3), boron carbide (B4C), and diamond (C). All of these abrasives have distinct
properties and are used for different materials and applications.