Garnet and BFA (Brown Fused Alumina) are two of the most common blasting abrasives. OneGarnet is a natural hard rock almandine garnet, while BFA is synthetic, created by the reduction-fusion of bauxites in electric arc furnaces above 2,000 ℃. Which performs better in durability, safety, and environmental impact? The answer becomes clear when comparing their performance. 

1. Surface Preparation Quality

BFA: With hardness of 9.0 and specific gravity between 3.6 and 4.1, BFA has strong cutting power and removes material quickly. But this also risks over-cutting and scratches on the surface. Its impurities allow iron particles to embed in blasted steel, especially where the passive chromium-oxide film is damaged. In contact with moisture and oxygen, they can oxidize into "black spots"—early signs of localized corrosion that shorten coating life. Even acid-washing cannot fully eliminate this risk.

OneGarnet: With 7-8 Mohs hardness and higher toughness, it creates a consistent anchor profile without excessive cutting. With no free metallic iron and low chlorides, it also prevents embedded iron and salt residues. The result is: improved surface quality, mitigated corrosion, and longer coating life.

2. Health & Safety

BFA: Medium toughness and brittle structure make it prone to breakage, generating more airborne dust. Inhaled over time, such fine particles pose respiratory risks for workers.

OneGarnet:  Tougher and far less friable, it produces much less dust. With free silica ≤ 0.5%, it reduces the risk of silicosis. Together, these features provide a safer, cleaner working environment.

3. Environmental Sustainability

BFA: Under aggressive blasting, its hardness and brittleness may lead to frequent particle fracture and loss. This produces more spent material and increased dust. Disposal may demand costly hazardous-waste treatment and raise risks of soil or water contamination.

OneGarnet: Tough grains resist breakage, so less dust is released. It can be reused multiple times, cutting fresh abrasive use and waste volumes. With low chlorides, no heavy metals and radioactivity, its spent material is cleaner and easier to handle, lowering long-term environmental impact.

By comparison, OneGarnet ensures cleaner surfaces, safer blasting, and greener operations. For blasting projects where coating durability, workplace safety, and environmental compliance matter, OneGarnet is the smarter abrasive choice.