{"id":12808,"date":"2026-04-13T02:24:11","date_gmt":"2026-04-13T02:24:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/?p=12808"},"modified":"2026-04-14T03:18:57","modified_gmt":"2026-04-14T03:18:57","slug":"plastic-blast-media-for-aerospace-automotive-complete-technical-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/de\/resource\/blog\/plastic-blast-media-for-aerospace-automotive-complete-technical-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Plastic Blast Media for Aerospace &amp; Automotive: Complete Technical Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<!-- ============================================================\n     CLUSTER 7: Plastic Blast Media for Aerospace & Automotive\n     Jiangsu Henglihong Technology Co., Ltd.\n     URL: https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/plastic-blast-media-for-aerospace-automotive\/\n     Pillar back-link: https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/blasting-media\/\n     Word count target: ~1,800 words\n     Updated: March 2026\n     ============================================================ -->\n\n<!-- ===== JSON-LD SCHEMA ===== -->\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\n    \"@context\": \"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\n    \"@graph\": [\n        {\n            \"@type\": \"Article\",\n            \"@id\": \"https:\\\/\\\/hlh-js.com\\\/resource\\\/blog\\\/plastic-blast-media-for-aerospace-automotive\\\/#article\",\n            \"headline\": \"Plastic Blast Media for Aerospace & Automotive: Complete Technical Guide (2026)\",\n            \"description\": \"Everything industrial buyers need to know about plastic blast media \\u2014 resin types, mesh grades, aerospace paint stripping specifications, automotive composite applications, operating parameters, and how plastic media compares to mineral abrasives.\",\n            \"image\": \"https:\\\/\\\/hlh-js.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/plastic-blast-media-guide.jpg\",\n            \"author\": {\n                \"@type\": \"Organization\",\n                \"name\": \"Jiangsu Henglihong Technology Co., Ltd.\",\n                \"url\": \"https:\\\/\\\/hlh-js.com\"\n            },\n            \"publisher\": {\n                \"@type\": \"Organization\",\n                \"name\": \"Jiangsu Henglihong Technology Co., Ltd.\",\n                \"logo\": {\n                    \"@type\": \"ImageObject\",\n                    \"url\": \"https:\\\/\\\/hlh-js.com\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/logo.png\"\n                }\n            },\n            \"datePublished\": \"2026-03-01\",\n            \"dateModified\": \"2026-03-23\",\n            \"mainEntityOfPage\": \"https:\\\/\\\/hlh-js.com\\\/resource\\\/blog\\\/plastic-blast-media-for-aerospace-automotive\\\/\"\n        },\n        {\n            \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n            \"@id\": \"https:\\\/\\\/hlh-js.com\\\/resource\\\/blog\\\/plastic-blast-media-for-aerospace-automotive\\\/#faq\",\n            \"mainEntity\": [\n                {\n                    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n                    \"name\": \"What is plastic blast media used for?\",\n                    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n                        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n                        \"text\": \"Plastic blast media is used to strip paint, coatings, and adhesives from substrates that cannot tolerate the aggression of mineral or metallic abrasives \\u2014 primarily thin-gauge aluminum aircraft skins, carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) and fiberglass composite panels, magnesium components, and delicate automotive body panels. It removes coatings without measurably altering substrate dimensions, inducing warp, or severing reinforcing fibers, making it indispensable in aerospace MRO, aircraft painting, and automotive refinishing operations.\"\n                    }\n                },\n                {\n                    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n                    \"name\": \"What types of plastic blast media are available?\",\n                    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n                        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n                        \"text\": \"The three main resin types are urea formaldehyde (softest, lowest cutting action, for most delicate substrates), melamine formaldehyde (medium hardness, the most versatile general-purpose grade), and acrylic (hardest of the three, fastest coating removal, for thicker coatings on less sensitive substrates). Mesh sizes typically range from 12 to 80 mesh, with coarser grades for faster stripping and finer grades for thinner substrates or thinner coatings.\"\n                    }\n                },\n                {\n                    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n                    \"name\": \"Will plastic blast media damage aluminum?\",\n                    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n                        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n                        \"text\": \"Correctly specified and operated plastic blast media does not damage aluminum substrates \\u2014 that is precisely why it is used for aerospace aluminum skin panels. At correct blast pressure (typically 2\\u20134 bar), correct nozzle distance (150\\u2013250 mm), and with the appropriate resin type and mesh grade, plastic media strips paint and coatings from aluminum without measurable dimensional change, surface hardening, or roughening beyond the original substrate condition.\"\n                    }\n                },\n                {\n                    \"@type\": \"Question\",\n                    \"name\": \"Can plastic blast media be reused?\",\n                    \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n                        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n                        \"text\": \"Yes. Plastic blast media can be reused 20\\u201350 cycles in a recirculating cabinet system with a properly tuned classifier to remove sub-size broken particles and paint contamination. Reuse life depends on blast pressure, substrate hardness, and the type of coating being stripped \\u2014 thicker, harder coatings accelerate media fracture. Media should be classified and inspected regularly, and the working charge topped up with fresh media to maintain a consistent particle size distribution.\"\n                    }\n                }\n            ]\n        }\n    ]\n}<\/script>\n\n<!-- ===== EMBEDDED CSS ===== -->\n<style>\n  .c7-article *,\n  .c7-article *::before,\n  .c7-article *::after { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n\n  .c7-article {\n    font-family: 'Georgia', 'Times New Roman', serif;\n    font-size: 17px;\n    line-height: 1.85;\n    color: #1a1a2e;\n    max-width: 860px;\n    margin: 0 auto;\n    padding: 0 20px 60px;\n  }\n\n  \/* --- Typography --- *\/\n  .c7-article h2 {\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', 'Gill Sans', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 1.75rem;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    color: #0d2137;\n    margin: 52px 0 16px;\n    padding-bottom: 10px;\n    border-bottom: 3px solid #e05f1b;\n    letter-spacing: -0.3px;\n  }\n  .c7-article h3 {\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', 'Gill Sans', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 1.2rem;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    color: #0d2137;\n    margin: 34px 0 12px;\n  }\n  .c7-article h4 {\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', 'Gill Sans', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 1rem;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    color: #1e3a5f;\n    margin: 22px 0 8px;\n  }\n  .c7-article p  { margin-bottom: 18px; }\n  .c7-article a  {\n    color: #e05f1b;\n    text-decoration: none;\n    border-bottom: 1px solid rgba(224,95,27,0.35);\n    transition: color 0.2s, border-color 0.2s;\n  }\n  .c7-article a:hover { color: #b84a10; border-bottom-color: #b84a10; }\n  .c7-article ul,\n  .c7-article ol { margin: 0 0 18px 24px; }\n  .c7-article li { margin-bottom: 7px; }\n  strong { color: #0d2137; }\n\n  \/* --- Hero --- *\/\n  .c7-hero {\n    background: linear-gradient(135deg, #0d2137 0%, #1e3a5f 58%, #e05f1b 100%);\n    border-radius: 12px;\n    padding: 50px 44px 42px;\n    margin-bottom: 40px;\n    color: #fff;\n    position: relative;\n    overflow: hidden;\n  }\n  .c7-hero::before {\n    content: '';\n    position: absolute;\n    top: -50px; right: -50px;\n    width: 220px; height: 220px;\n    background: rgba(255,255,255,0.04);\n    border-radius: 50%;\n  }\n  .c7-hero-label {\n    display: inline-block;\n    background: rgba(224,95,27,0.85);\n    color: #fff;\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.72rem;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    letter-spacing: 0.12em;\n    text-transform: uppercase;\n    padding: 4px 12px;\n    border-radius: 4px;\n    margin-bottom: 16px;\n  }\n  .c7-hero h1 {\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', 'Gill Sans', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 2.1rem;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    line-height: 1.25;\n    color: #fff;\n    margin-bottom: 14px;\n    letter-spacing: -0.4px;\n  }\n  .c7-hero-sub {\n    font-size: 1.02rem;\n    color: rgba(255,255,255,0.82);\n    max-width: 600px;\n    line-height: 1.7;\n  }\n  .c7-hero-meta {\n    margin-top: 20px;\n    font-size: 0.82rem;\n    color: rgba(255,255,255,0.5);\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n  }\n\n  \/* --- Specs bar --- *\/\n  .c7-specs-bar {\n    display: grid;\n    grid-template-columns: repeat(4, 1fr);\n    gap: 14px;\n    margin: 0 0 40px;\n  }\n  .c7-spec-card {\n    background: #fff;\n    border: 1px solid #d4dde8;\n    border-top: 3px solid #e05f1b;\n    border-radius: 8px;\n    padding: 16px 14px;\n    text-align: center;\n  }\n  .c7-spec-num {\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 1.65rem;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    color: #e05f1b;\n    display: block;\n    line-height: 1.1;\n  }\n  .c7-spec-label {\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.75rem;\n    color: #5a6a7a;\n    margin-top: 5px;\n    display: block;\n    line-height: 1.4;\n  }\n\n  \/* --- Pillar back-link --- *\/\n  .c7-pillar-link {\n    background: #f4f7fb;\n    border: 1px solid #c8d8e8;\n    border-radius: 8px;\n    padding: 14px 20px;\n    margin-bottom: 36px;\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.88rem;\n    color: #4a5a6a;\n    display: flex;\n    align-items: center;\n    gap: 10px;\n    flex-wrap: wrap;\n  }\n  .c7-pillar-link a {\n    color: #1e3a5f;\n    font-weight: 600;\n    border-bottom: 1px solid rgba(30,58,95,0.3);\n  }\n\n  \/* --- ToC --- *\/\n  .c7-toc {\n    background: #f4f7fb;\n    border: 1px solid #d4dde8;\n    border-left: 4px solid #e05f1b;\n    border-radius: 8px;\n    padding: 24px 28px;\n    margin-bottom: 40px;\n  }\n  .c7-toc-title {\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.75rem;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    letter-spacing: 0.1em;\n    text-transform: uppercase;\n    color: #5a6a7a;\n    margin-bottom: 12px;\n  }\n  .c7-toc ol {\n    margin: 0; padding-left: 18px;\n    list-style: none;\n    counter-reset: toc-c7;\n  }\n  .c7-toc ol li {\n    counter-increment: toc-c7;\n    margin-bottom: 7px;\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.92rem;\n  }\n  .c7-toc ol li::before { content: counter(toc-c7) \". \"; color: #e05f1b; font-weight: 700; }\n  .c7-toc ol li a {\n    color: #1e3a5f; border-bottom: none;\n    text-decoration: underline;\n    text-decoration-color: rgba(30,58,95,0.25);\n  }\n  .c7-toc ol li a:hover { color: #e05f1b; }\n\n  \/* --- Callout boxes --- *\/\n  .c7-highlight {\n    background: #fff8f4;\n    border: 1px solid #f0c4a0;\n    border-left: 4px solid #e05f1b;\n    border-radius: 6px;\n    padding: 18px 22px;\n    margin: 22px 0;\n    font-size: 0.95rem;\n  }\n  .c7-highlight-label {\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.7rem; font-weight: 700;\n    letter-spacing: 0.09em; text-transform: uppercase;\n    color: #e05f1b; margin-bottom: 7px; display: block;\n  }\n  .c7-info {\n    background: #eef4fb;\n    border: 1px solid #c2d4e8;\n    border-left: 4px solid #1e3a5f;\n    border-radius: 6px;\n    padding: 16px 22px;\n    margin: 22px 0;\n    font-size: 0.94rem;\n  }\n  .c7-warning {\n    background: #fffbec;\n    border: 1px solid #f0dfa0;\n    border-left: 4px solid #c8960a;\n    border-radius: 6px;\n    padding: 16px 22px;\n    margin: 22px 0;\n    font-size: 0.94rem;\n  }\n  .c7-warning-label {\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.7rem; font-weight: 700;\n    letter-spacing: 0.09em; text-transform: uppercase;\n    color: #a07a08; margin-bottom: 7px; display: block;\n  }\n\n  \/* --- Resin type cards --- *\/\n  .c7-resin-grid {\n    display: grid;\n    grid-template-columns: repeat(3, 1fr);\n    gap: 16px;\n    margin: 22px 0 32px;\n  }\n  .c7-resin-card {\n    border: 1px solid #d4dde8;\n    border-radius: 10px;\n    overflow: hidden;\n  }\n  .c7-resin-header {\n    padding: 13px 18px;\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.92rem;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    color: #fff;\n    text-align: center;\n  }\n  .c7-resin-header.urea     { background: #2e6b4a; }\n  .c7-resin-header.melamine { background: #1e3a5f; }\n  .c7-resin-header.acrylic  { background: #7a2e1a; }\n  .c7-resin-body { padding: 14px 16px; background: #fff; }\n  .c7-resin-row {\n    display: flex;\n    justify-content: space-between;\n    padding: 6px 0;\n    border-bottom: 1px solid #eaeff4;\n    font-size: 0.84rem;\n  }\n  .c7-resin-row:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n  .c7-resin-label { color: #5a6a7a; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; }\n  .c7-resin-val   { color: #0d2137; font-weight: 600; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: right; }\n\n  \/* --- Grade selection table --- *\/\n  .c7-table-wrap { overflow-x: auto; margin: 22px 0 30px; }\n  .c7-table {\n    width: 100%;\n    border-collapse: collapse;\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.85rem;\n    min-width: 560px;\n  }\n  .c7-table thead th {\n    background: #0d2137;\n    color: #fff;\n    padding: 11px 14px;\n    text-align: left;\n    font-weight: 600;\n    font-size: 0.8rem;\n    letter-spacing: 0.03em;\n  }\n  .c7-table tbody tr:nth-child(even) { background: #f4f7fb; }\n  .c7-table tbody tr:hover           { background: #eaf0f7; }\n  .c7-table tbody td {\n    padding: 10px 14px;\n    border-bottom: 1px solid #dde5ef;\n    color: #2a3a4a;\n    vertical-align: middle;\n    line-height: 1.5;\n  }\n  .c7-table tbody td:first-child { font-weight: 700; color: #0d2137; }\n  .c7-table tbody tr.c7-pop td  { background: #fff8f4 !important; }\n  .c7-table tbody tr.c7-pop td:first-child { color: #b84a10; }\n\n  .c7-badge {\n    display: inline-block;\n    font-size: 0.68rem; font-weight: 700;\n    padding: 2px 7px; border-radius: 3px;\n    margin-left: 5px; white-space: nowrap;\n  }\n  .c7-badge-pop  { background: #fde2e2; color: #8a1f1f; }\n  .c7-badge-aero { background: #dde8f8; color: #1a3f80; }\n\n  \/* --- Operating parameters panel --- *\/\n  .c7-params {\n    background: #0d2137;\n    border-radius: 10px;\n    padding: 26px 30px;\n    margin: 26px 0 32px;\n    color: #fff;\n  }\n  .c7-params h3 { color: #fff; margin-top: 0; margin-bottom: 18px; font-size: 1.05rem; }\n  .c7-params-grid {\n    display: grid;\n    grid-template-columns: repeat(2, 1fr);\n    gap: 14px;\n  }\n  .c7-param-item {\n    background: rgba(255,255,255,0.07);\n    border: 1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.12);\n    border-radius: 8px;\n    padding: 14px 16px;\n  }\n  .c7-param-label {\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.7rem;\n    font-weight: 700;\n    letter-spacing: 0.08em;\n    text-transform: uppercase;\n    color: rgba(255,255,255,0.55);\n    display: block;\n    margin-bottom: 5px;\n  }\n  .c7-param-val {\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.92rem;\n    font-weight: 600;\n    color: #e05f1b;\n    display: block;\n    margin-bottom: 3px;\n  }\n  .c7-param-note {\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.78rem;\n    color: rgba(255,255,255,0.6);\n    line-height: 1.45;\n  }\n\n  \/* --- Substrate compatibility grid --- *\/\n  .c7-compat-grid {\n    display: grid;\n    grid-template-columns: repeat(3, 1fr);\n    gap: 10px;\n    margin: 20px 0 30px;\n  }\n  .c7-compat-item {\n    border-radius: 7px;\n    padding: 12px 14px;\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.84rem;\n    display: flex;\n    align-items: flex-start;\n    gap: 8px;\n  }\n  .c7-compat-yes  { background: #edf7f1; border: 1px solid #b8ddc8; color: #1a5c36; }\n  .c7-compat-no   { background: #fdf0f0; border: 1px solid #f0c0c0; color: #8a1f1f; }\n  .c7-compat-caution { background: #fffbec; border: 1px solid #f0dfa0; color: #7d5a00; }\n  .c7-compat-icon { font-size: 1rem; flex-shrink: 0; margin-top: 1px; }\n  .c7-compat-text { font-weight: 600; line-height: 1.35; }\n  .c7-compat-sub  { font-size: 0.74rem; font-weight: 400; display: block; opacity: 0.82; margin-top: 2px; }\n\n  \/* --- Aerospace spec panel --- *\/\n  .c7-aero-panel {\n    background: #eef4fb;\n    border: 1px solid #b8cce0;\n    border-left: 4px solid #1e3a5f;\n    border-radius: 8px;\n    padding: 22px 26px;\n    margin: 24px 0 30px;\n  }\n  .c7-aero-panel h3 { margin-top: 0; color: #0d2137; font-size: 1.05rem; margin-bottom: 12px; }\n  .c7-aero-panel p  { font-size: 0.93rem; margin-bottom: 10px; }\n  .c7-aero-panel ul { font-size: 0.9rem; margin-bottom: 0; }\n\n  \/* --- Application cards --- *\/\n  .c7-app-grid {\n    display: grid;\n    grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr;\n    gap: 14px;\n    margin: 22px 0 32px;\n  }\n  .c7-app-card {\n    background: #fff;\n    border: 1px solid #d4dde8;\n    border-radius: 9px;\n    padding: 18px 18px 14px;\n  }\n  .c7-app-icon { font-size: 1.6rem; display: block; margin-bottom: 8px; }\n  .c7-app-card h4 { font-size: 0.9rem; margin: 0 0 6px; color: #0d2137; }\n  .c7-app-card p  { font-size: 0.82rem; color: #5a6a7a; line-height: 1.55; margin: 0; }\n\n  \/* --- FAQ --- *\/\n  .c7-faq { margin: 28px 0; }\n  .c7-faq-item {\n    border: 1px solid #d4dde8;\n    border-radius: 8px;\n    margin-bottom: 10px;\n    overflow: hidden;\n  }\n  .c7-faq-q {\n    background: #f4f7fb;\n    padding: 15px 20px;\n    cursor: pointer;\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.95rem;\n    font-weight: 600;\n    color: #0d2137;\n    display: flex;\n    justify-content: space-between;\n    align-items: center;\n    user-select: none;\n    border: none;\n    width: 100%;\n    text-align: left;\n  }\n  .c7-faq-q:hover { background: #eaf0f7; }\n  .c7-faq-icon {\n    font-size: 1.2rem;\n    color: #e05f1b;\n    transition: transform 0.25s;\n    flex-shrink: 0;\n    margin-left: 12px;\n    font-style: normal;\n  }\n  .c7-faq-item.open .c7-faq-icon { transform: rotate(45deg); }\n  .c7-faq-a {\n    display: none;\n    padding: 15px 20px 17px;\n    font-size: 0.92rem;\n    line-height: 1.75;\n    color: #3a4a5a;\n    border-top: 1px solid #d4dde8;\n  }\n  .c7-faq-item.open .c7-faq-a { display: block; }\n\n  \/* --- CTA --- *\/\n  .c7-cta {\n    background: linear-gradient(135deg, #0d2137 0%, #1e3a5f 100%);\n    border-radius: 12px;\n    padding: 38px 42px;\n    margin-top: 50px;\n    text-align: center;\n    color: #fff;\n  }\n  .c7-cta h2 {\n    color: #fff; border: none; padding: 0;\n    margin: 0 0 10px; font-size: 1.55rem;\n  }\n  .c7-cta p {\n    color: rgba(255,255,255,0.75);\n    max-width: 520px; margin: 0 auto 22px; font-size: 0.98rem;\n  }\n  .c7-cta-btn {\n    display: inline-block;\n    background: #e05f1b;\n    color: #fff !important;\n    font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;\n    font-size: 0.95rem; font-weight: 700;\n    padding: 13px 34px; border-radius: 6px;\n    text-decoration: none !important; border: none !important;\n    transition: background 0.2s, transform 0.2s;\n  }\n  .c7-cta-btn:hover { background: #c05010 !important; transform: translateY(-1px); }\n\n  \/* --- Responsive --- *\/\n  @media (max-width: 680px) {\n    .c7-hero { padding: 30px 22px 26px; }\n    .c7-hero h1 { font-size: 1.6rem; }\n    .c7-specs-bar  { grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; }\n    .c7-resin-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n    .c7-app-grid   { grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; }\n    .c7-compat-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; }\n    .c7-params-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n    .c7-cta { padding: 26px 20px; }\n    .c7-article h2 { font-size: 1.38rem; }\n  }\n  @media (max-width: 420px) {\n    .c7-app-grid    { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n    .c7-compat-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n  }\n<\/style>\n\n<!-- ===== ARTICLE WRAPPER ===== -->\n<article class=\"c7-article\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Article\">\n\n  <!-- HERO -->\n  <div class=\"c7-hero\">\n    <span class=\"c7-hero-label\">In-Depth Product Guide \u00b7 March 2026<\/span>\n    <h1 itemprop=\"headline\">Plastic Blast Media for Aerospace &amp; Automotive: Complete Technical Guide<\/h1>\n    <p class=\"c7-hero-sub\">The only commercially available blasting abrasive that strips paint and coatings from thin aluminum aircraft skins, carbon fiber composites, and fiberglass panels without substrate damage \u2014 covering resin types, mesh grade selection, aerospace specifications, operating parameters, and substrate compatibility.<\/p>\n    <div class=\"c7-hero-meta\">Updated March 2026 &nbsp;\u00b7&nbsp; 10-minute read &nbsp;\u00b7&nbsp; Jiangsu Henglihong Technology Co., Ltd.<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- KEY SPECS -->\n  <div class=\"c7-specs-bar\">\n    <div class=\"c7-spec-card\">\n      <span class=\"c7-spec-num\">3\u20134<\/span>\n      <span class=\"c7-spec-label\">Mohs hardness \u2014 gentle enough for composites and thin aluminum<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-spec-card\">\n      <span class=\"c7-spec-num\">3 Types<\/span>\n      <span class=\"c7-spec-label\">Urea, melamine, acrylic \u2014 each with distinct cutting action<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-spec-card\">\n      <span class=\"c7-spec-num\">20\u201350\u00d7<\/span>\n      <span class=\"c7-spec-label\">Recycle cycles in recirculating cabinet systems<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-spec-card\">\n      <span class=\"c7-spec-num\">Zero<\/span>\n      <span class=\"c7-spec-label\">Measurable substrate removal on correctly operated systems<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- PILLAR BACK-LINK -->\n  <div class=\"c7-pillar-link\">\n    <span>\ud83d\udcd6<\/span>\n    <span>Part of our complete abrasive blasting resource library. For a full overview of all media types and selection guidance, visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/blasting-media\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Blasting Media: Complete Industry Guide<\/a>.<\/span>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- TOC -->\n  <nav class=\"c7-toc\" aria-label=\"Table of Contents\">\n    <div class=\"c7-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/div>\n    <ol>\n      <li><a href=\"#c7-what-is\">What Is Plastic Blast Media?<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#c7-resin-types\">Three Resin Types \u2014 Urea, Melamine &amp; Acrylic<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#c7-grades\">Mesh Grade Selection Guide<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#c7-substrates\">Substrate Compatibility<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#c7-aerospace\">Aerospace Applications &amp; Specifications<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#c7-automotive\">Automotive &amp; Refinishing Applications<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#c7-parameters\">Operating Parameters \u2014 Pressure, Distance &amp; Angle<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#c7-vs-mineral\">Plastic Media vs Mineral Abrasives<\/a><\/li>\n      <li><a href=\"#c7-faq\">H\u00e4ufig gestellte Fragen<\/a><\/li>\n    <\/ol>\n  <\/nav>\n\n  <!-- SECTION 1 -->\n  <h2 id=\"c7-what-is\">1. What Is Plastic Blast Media?<\/h2>\n\n  <p>Plastic blast media \u2014 also called <strong>plastic abrasive media<\/strong>, <strong>plastic grit<\/strong>, or by its military designation <em>MIL-P-85891<\/em> \u2014 consists of angular particles manufactured from thermosetting plastic resins, primarily urea formaldehyde, melamine formaldehyde, and acrylic. The particles are produced by polymerizing the resin under heat and pressure, then crushing and sizing the resulting solid into the angular, blocky particle shape used for blasting.<\/p>\n\n  <p>The defining property of plastic blast media is its <strong>very low hardness (Mohs 3\u20134)<\/strong> \u2014 significantly softer than the aluminum, titanium, magnesium, steel, and composite substrates it is used to treat. This means that when plastic media particles impact a coated surface, they break up the paint or coating film through repeated impact energy without being hard enough to cut, scratch, or dimensionally alter the underlying substrate. It is the only commercially available blasting abrasive capable of stripping coatings from thin aluminum aircraft skin panels, carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) fuselage sections, and fiberglass composite structures without causing substrate damage.<\/p>\n\n  <p>As of March 2026, plastic blast media is mandated or strongly preferred in aerospace maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations under specifications including MIL-P-85891, Boeing BSS 7039, Airbus ABP 09-03-006, and SAE AMS 2441. It is also widely used in automotive refinishing, defense vehicle refurbishment, marine composite repair, and the electronics industry for deflashing of plastic-encapsulated components.<\/p>\n\n  <div class=\"c7-highlight\">\n    <span class=\"c7-highlight-label\">Why It Exists<\/span>\n    Aircraft manufacturers discovered decades ago that conventional mineral abrasives \u2014 even at the finest grit sizes \u2014 caused unacceptable fatigue damage to thin aluminum aircraft skins when used for paint stripping. The solution was a media soft enough to remove the coating without touching the metal. Plastic blast media was developed specifically to solve this problem, and it remains the only engineering-approved solution for the most sensitive aerospace substrates.\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- SECTION 2 -->\n  <h2 id=\"c7-resin-types\">2. Three Resin Types \u2014 Urea, Melamine &amp; Acrylic<\/h2>\n\n  <p>The three commercially available resin systems produce meaningfully different cutting action, particle toughness, and application suitability. Selecting the correct resin type is as important as selecting the correct mesh size \u2014 the wrong resin for the substrate can result in either insufficient coating removal rate or, at the other extreme, surface etching that should not occur.<\/p>\n\n  <div class=\"c7-resin-grid\">\n    <div class=\"c7-resin-card\">\n      <div class=\"c7-resin-header urea\">Urea Formaldehyde<\/div>\n      <div class=\"c7-resin-body\">\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">H\u00e4rte<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Mohs ~3.0<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Cutting action<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Lightest<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Recycle life<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Lower<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Farbe<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">White \/ off-white<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Best substrate<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Most delicate composites, magnesium<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Coat removal<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Thin, soft coatings<\/span><\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-resin-card\">\n      <div class=\"c7-resin-header melamine\">Melamine Formaldehyde<\/div>\n      <div class=\"c7-resin-body\">\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">H\u00e4rte<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Mohs ~3.5<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Cutting action<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Medium \u2014 most versatile<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Recycle life<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Medium<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Farbe<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Wei\u00df<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Best substrate<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Aluminum airframes, CFRP, fiberglass<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Coat removal<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Polyurethane, epoxy, primer systems<\/span><\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-resin-card\">\n      <div class=\"c7-resin-header acrylic\">Acrylic<\/div>\n      <div class=\"c7-resin-body\">\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">H\u00e4rte<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Mohs ~4.0<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Cutting action<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Highest of the three<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Recycle life<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Higher<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Farbe<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Translucent \/ clear<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Best substrate<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Aluminum, steel, harder composites<\/span><\/div>\n        <div class=\"c7-resin-row\"><span class=\"c7-resin-label\">Coat removal<\/span><span class=\"c7-resin-val\">Thick, hard coatings, multi-layer systems<\/span><\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <p>For the majority of aerospace paint stripping applications on aluminum airframes, <strong>melamine formaldehyde in 16\u201320 mesh<\/strong> is the workhorse specification. It provides the right balance of coating removal rate and substrate safety for the polyurethane topcoats and epoxy primer systems used on commercial and military aircraft. Urea is reserved for the most delicate substrates or thinnest coatings; acrylic is used when faster stripping of harder or thicker coatings justifies the slight increase in aggression, typically on automotive or ground vehicle components.<\/p>\n\n  <!-- SECTION 3 -->\n  <h2 id=\"c7-grades\">3. Mesh Grade Selection Guide<\/h2>\n\n  <p>Plastic blast media is sized by US mesh, with coarser grades removing coatings faster at the cost of slightly more surface texture on the stripped substrate, and finer grades producing a gentler action for the most sensitive applications. The practical range for most industrial applications spans 12 to 80 mesh.<\/p>\n\n  <div class=\"c7-table-wrap\">\n    <table class=\"c7-table\">\n      <thead>\n        <tr>\n          <th>Mesh Size<\/th>\n          <th>Particle Size (\u00b5m)<\/th>\n          <th>Coating Removal Rate<\/th>\n          <th>Substrate Impact<\/th>\n          <th>Typical Application<\/th>\n        <\/tr>\n      <\/thead>\n      <tbody>\n        <tr>\n          <td>12\u201316 Mesh<\/td>\n          <td>1,180\u20131,680<\/td>\n          <td>Fast<\/td>\n          <td>Low-medium<\/td>\n          <td>Thick multi-layer coatings on aluminum and steel, automotive frame stripping<\/td>\n        <\/tr>\n        <tr class=\"c7-pop\">\n          <td>16\u201320 Mesh <span class=\"c7-badge c7-badge-aero\">Aerospace standard<\/span><\/td>\n          <td>850\u20131,180<\/td>\n          <td>Medium-fast<\/td>\n          <td>Niedrig<\/td>\n          <td>Aircraft aluminum skin stripping, polyurethane topcoat and epoxy primer removal<\/td>\n        <\/tr>\n        <tr class=\"c7-pop\">\n          <td>20\u201330 Mesh <span class=\"c7-badge c7-badge-pop\">Most versatile<\/span><\/td>\n          <td>600-850<\/td>\n          <td>Medium<\/td>\n          <td>Very low<\/td>\n          <td>CFRP, fiberglass, general composite paint stripping, automotive body panels<\/td>\n        <\/tr>\n        <tr>\n          <td>30\u201340 Mesh<\/td>\n          <td>425-600<\/td>\n          <td>Medium-slow<\/td>\n          <td>Minimal<\/td>\n          <td>Thin coatings on delicate composites, magnesium components, marine fiberglass<\/td>\n        <\/tr>\n        <tr>\n          <td>40\u201360 Mesh<\/td>\n          <td>250\u2013425<\/td>\n          <td>Slow<\/td>\n          <td>Negligible<\/td>\n          <td>Ultra-thin coatings, surface conditioning of very sensitive substrates<\/td>\n        <\/tr>\n        <tr>\n          <td>60\u201380 Mesh<\/td>\n          <td>180-250<\/td>\n          <td>Very slow<\/td>\n          <td>Negligible<\/td>\n          <td>Electronics deflashing, precision plastic component cleaning<\/td>\n        <\/tr>\n      <\/tbody>\n    <\/table>\n  <\/div>\n  <p style=\"font-size:0.82rem;color:#7a8a9a;margin-top:-16px;\">Coating removal rate and substrate impact ratings are relative within plastic media at standard operating pressure (2\u20134 bar). Actual performance depends on resin type, blast pressure, standoff distance, nozzle angle, and coating system composition.<\/p>\n\n  <!-- SECTION 4 -->\n  <h2 id=\"c7-substrates\">4. Substrate Compatibility<\/h2>\n\n  <div class=\"c7-compat-grid\">\n    <div class=\"c7-compat-item c7-compat-yes\">\n      <span class=\"c7-compat-icon\">\u2713<\/span>\n      <div>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-text\">Aluminum Airframes<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-sub\">Primary application \u2014 no warping or fatigue damage at correct parameters<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-compat-item c7-compat-yes\">\n      <span class=\"c7-compat-icon\">\u2713<\/span>\n      <div>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-text\">CFRP \/ Carbon Fiber<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-sub\">Only safe abrasive option \u2014 mineral media severs fibers<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-compat-item c7-compat-yes\">\n      <span class=\"c7-compat-icon\">\u2713<\/span>\n      <div>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-text\">Fiberglass (GRP)<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-sub\">Composite boat hulls, aircraft radomes, panels<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-compat-item c7-compat-yes\">\n      <span class=\"c7-compat-icon\">\u2713<\/span>\n      <div>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-text\">Magnesium Alloys<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-sub\">Helicopter gearbox housings, aerospace castings<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-compat-item c7-compat-yes\">\n      <span class=\"c7-compat-icon\">\u2713<\/span>\n      <div>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-text\">Thin Aluminum Body Panels<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-sub\">Automotive hoods, doors \u2014 prevents warping<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-compat-item c7-compat-yes\">\n      <span class=\"c7-compat-icon\">\u2713<\/span>\n      <div>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-text\">Kevlar \/ Aramid Composites<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-sub\">Defense panels, ballistic structures (urea or melamine only)<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-compat-item c7-compat-caution\">\n      <span class=\"c7-compat-icon\">\u25b3<\/span>\n      <div>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-text\">Carbon or Structural Steel<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-sub\">Ineffective for rust or mill scale \u2014 use mineral abrasives<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-compat-item c7-compat-caution\">\n      <span class=\"c7-compat-icon\">\u25b3<\/span>\n      <div>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-text\">Titanium Components<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-sub\">Acceptable for paint stripping only \u2014 verify spec approval<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-compat-item c7-compat-no\">\n      <span class=\"c7-compat-icon\">\u2717<\/span>\n      <div>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-text\">Heavy Rust Removal<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-compat-sub\">Insufficient hardness \u2014 plastic media cannot remove corrosion<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <div class=\"c7-warning\">\n    <span class=\"c7-warning-label\">Important Limitation<\/span>\n    Plastic blast media strips coatings \u2014 it does not remove corrosion, rust, mill scale, or hardened deposits. If a substrate has active corrosion beneath the paint layer, plastic media will expose it but cannot treat it. A follow-up treatment with an appropriate rust-inhibiting primer or chemical conversion coating is always required after plastic media stripping on corroded substrates.\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- SECTION 5 -->\n  <h2 id=\"c7-aerospace\">5. Aerospace Applications &amp; Specifications<\/h2>\n\n  <div class=\"c7-aero-panel\">\n    <h3>Regulatory and Specification Framework for Aerospace Plastic Blast Media<\/h3>\n    <p>Aerospace plastic blast media use is governed by a comprehensive set of military, OEM, and industry specifications that define approved media types, operating parameters, and inspection requirements. Key references as of March 2026 include:<\/p>\n    <ul>\n      <li><strong>MIL-P-85891:<\/strong> The primary US military specification for plastic blast media used in aircraft coating removal. Defines resin type classifications (Type I = urea, Type II = melamine, Type III = acrylic), size grades, and performance requirements.<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Boeing BSS 7039:<\/strong> Boeing&#8217;s process specification for paint removal from aircraft structures using plastic media blasting, with defined pressure limits, nozzle types, and inspection requirements by substrate type.<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Airbus ABP 09-03-006:<\/strong> Airbus equivalent process specification for plastic media blasting on commercial aircraft structures.<\/li>\n      <li><strong>SAE AMS 2441:<\/strong> Society of Automotive Engineers specification for plastic media blasting, covering approved media, process parameters, and quality requirements.<\/li>\n      <li><strong>DEF STAN 03-16 (UK):<\/strong> UK Ministry of Defence specification for plastic media blasting of military aircraft.<\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n    <p>Always verify that both the specific media product and the operating procedure are approved under the applicable OEM specification for the aircraft type before commencing plastic media blasting on certificated aircraft structures.<\/p>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <p>In aerospace MRO operations, plastic media blasting is used for complete paint removal from aircraft fuselage, wing, and empennage surfaces between scheduled repainting cycles \u2014 typically every 5\u20138 years on commercial aircraft. The process allows paint removal from an entire narrow-body fuselage in 2\u20134 days, compared to 7\u201314 days for chemical stripping, with significantly reduced chemical waste and worker exposure.<\/p>\n\n  <div class=\"c7-app-grid\">\n    <div class=\"c7-app-card\">\n      <span class=\"c7-app-icon\">\u2708\ufe0f<\/span>\n      <h4>Aircraft Paint Stripping<\/h4>\n      <p>Complete removal of topcoat, primer, and conversion coating from aluminum, CFRP, and composite aircraft structures between scheduled repainting. Melamine 16\u201320 mesh is the standard specification for commercial aircraft.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-app-card\">\n      <span class=\"c7-app-icon\">\ud83d\ude81<\/span>\n      <h4>Helicopter Components<\/h4>\n      <p>Paint stripping from aluminum rotor blades, magnesium gearbox housings, and composite fuselage panels. Urea media is often specified for magnesium to minimize any risk of surface interaction.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-app-card\">\n      <span class=\"c7-app-icon\">\ud83d\udef8<\/span>\n      <h4>Composite Radomes &amp; Fairings<\/h4>\n      <p>Removal of radar-transparent paint systems from fiberglass and CFRP radomes without affecting the electromagnetic transparency of the composite structure. Very fine mesh (30\u201340) at minimum pressure.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-app-card\">\n      <span class=\"c7-app-icon\">\ud83d\ude97<\/span>\n      <h4>Automotive Body Panels<\/h4>\n      <p>Paint stripping from aluminum hoods, doors, fenders, and rooflines in automotive refinishing and restoration shops. Prevents the warping and stress that angular abrasives cause on thin-gauge sheet. See our <a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/blasting-media-for-automotive-restoration\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">automotive restoration guide<\/a> for component recommendations.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-app-card\">\n      <span class=\"c7-app-icon\">\u2693<\/span>\n      <h4>Marine Composite Hulls<\/h4>\n      <p>Antifouling and topcoat removal from fiberglass and composite boat hulls between maintenance cycles. Plastic media avoids the osmotic blister damage that high-pressure water jetting can cause on fiberglass laminates.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"c7-app-card\">\n      <span class=\"c7-app-icon\">\ud83d\udcbb<\/span>\n      <h4>Electronics Deflashing<\/h4>\n      <p>Removal of flash and burrs from plastic-encapsulated electronic components (ICs, connectors, relays) after injection molding. Very fine mesh (60\u201380) at low pressure \u2014 the only abrasive process that achieves this without component damage.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- SECTION 6: AUTOMOTIVE already covered in app grid above, brief additional content -->\n  <h2 id=\"c7-automotive\">6. Automotive &amp; Refinishing Applications<\/h2>\n\n  <p>Beyond the aerospace sector, plastic blast media has established a strong position in automotive restoration, professional refinishing, and defense vehicle refurbishment. The common thread across these applications is the need to remove paint from substrates that would be damaged by conventional abrasive blasting.<\/p>\n\n  <p>In classic and vintage car restoration, thin-gauge steel and aluminum body panels are particularly vulnerable to heat and mechanical stress during blasting. Coarse mineral abrasives at normal blast pressures can warp panels to the point where they require expensive straightening \u2014 sometimes beyond economical repair. Plastic media at the correct parameters strips the paint without inducing substrate stress, leaving the original panel geometry intact for priming and repainting. For panels with multiple layers of filler, primer, and topcoat, a 12\u201320 mesh melamine or acrylic media is typically the most efficient specification.<\/p>\n\n  <p>Military and defense vehicle refurbishment programs have also adopted plastic media blasting extensively for stripping camouflage coatings from aluminum-bodied vehicles (HMMWV, armored personnel carriers, light tactical vehicles) before repainting or corrosion inspection. The process is faster than chemical stripping, generates less hazardous waste, and causes no substrate damage in fleet-scale operations.<\/p>\n\n  <!-- SECTION 7 -->\n  <h2 id=\"c7-parameters\">7. Operating Parameters \u2014 Pressure, Distance &amp; Angle<\/h2>\n\n  <p>Getting the operating parameters right is critical with plastic media. Unlike mineral abrasives where the main concern is achieving sufficient aggression, with plastic media the concern is equally about <strong>not exceeding the threshold that causes substrate damage<\/strong>. Operating outside the recommended envelope \u2014 particularly at excessive blast pressure \u2014 can cause surface stress, etching, or micro-cracking of sensitive composites.<\/p>\n\n  <div class=\"c7-params\">\n    <h3>Recommended Operating Envelope for Plastic Blast Media<\/h3>\n    <div class=\"c7-params-grid\">\n      <div class=\"c7-param-item\">\n        <span class=\"c7-param-label\">Blast Pressure<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-param-val\">2\u20134 bar (29\u201358 psi)<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-param-note\">Never exceed 4 bar (58 psi) on aerospace aluminum or CFRP. Higher pressure increases substrate stress without proportional improvement in stripping rate.<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"c7-param-item\">\n        <span class=\"c7-param-label\">Standoff Distance<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-param-val\">150\u2013250 mm (6\u201310 in)<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-param-note\">Closer distances concentrate impact force and risk substrate damage on sensitive panels. Maintain consistent distance throughout the operation.<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"c7-param-item\">\n        <span class=\"c7-param-label\">Sprengwinkel<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-param-val\">30\u201360\u00b0 to surface<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-param-note\">Oblique angle (45\u00b0 typical) promotes coating removal while reducing the direct impact force on the substrate. Avoid 90\u00b0 (perpendicular) blasting on thin panels.<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"c7-param-item\">\n        <span class=\"c7-param-label\">Nozzle Type<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-param-val\">Venturi (tungsten carbide or boron carbide)<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-param-note\">Plastic media is gentler on nozzles than mineral abrasives. Standard Venturi nozzles achieve good media velocity at lower pressures. Replace nozzles when internal diameter exceeds 1.6 mm over nominal size.<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"c7-param-item\">\n        <span class=\"c7-param-label\">Air Quality<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-param-val\">Oil-free, dry compressed air<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-param-note\">Moisture causes plastic media to clump and lose effectiveness. Dew point below \u221210\u00b0C at the nozzle. Oil contamination deposits on the stripped substrate and prevents primer adhesion.<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"c7-param-item\">\n        <span class=\"c7-param-label\">Substrate Temperature<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-param-val\">Above dew point, below 50\u00b0C<\/span>\n        <span class=\"c7-param-note\">Cold surfaces promote moisture condensation. Hot surfaces (direct sun exposure) can cause composite substrates to be more susceptible to impact damage. Work in controlled temperature environments where possible.<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <div class=\"c7-highlight\">\n    <span class=\"c7-highlight-label\">Process Qualification Reminder<\/span>\n    For aerospace applications, the complete plastic media blasting process \u2014 media type, mesh size, blast pressure, nozzle size, standoff distance, and blast angle \u2014 must be formally qualified against the applicable OEM specification before production use. A qualified process that falls outside the approved envelope on any parameter is non-compliant regardless of the visual result.\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- SECTION 8 -->\n  <h2 id=\"c7-vs-mineral\">8. Plastic Media vs Mineral Abrasives<\/h2>\n\n  <p>The comparison between plastic blast media and mineral abrasives such as <a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/aluminum-oxide-blast-media-uses-grit-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Aluminiumoxid<\/a> oder <a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/garnet-blasting-media-eco-friendly-high-performance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Granat<\/a> is not about which is superior in absolute terms \u2014 it is about which is appropriate for the specific substrate and task. They serve completely different functions and are not interchangeable on sensitive substrates.<\/p>\n\n  <ul>\n    <li><strong>Coating removal on composites and thin aluminum:<\/strong> Plastic media wins by default \u2014 no mineral abrasive can do this safely. Using aluminum oxide on CFRP at any grit size will sever carbon fibers and cause sub-surface delamination invisible to visual inspection.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Rust and mill scale removal from structural steel:<\/strong> Mineral abrasives win \u2014 plastic media has insufficient hardness to remove corrosion or scale. It will simply bounce off heavy rust deposits without effect.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Anchor profile creation for heavy coatings:<\/strong> Mineral or metallic abrasives are required \u2014 plastic media produces a negligible surface profile inadequate for heavy-build epoxy or zinc-rich primer adhesion on structural steel.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Cost per m\u00b2:<\/strong> Plastic media has a higher unit price than most mineral abrasives and lower recyclability (20\u201350 cycles vs 100\u2013200 for aluminum oxide). However, for the applications where it is the correct specification, there is no alternative \u2014 the comparison is irrelevant.<\/li>\n    <li><strong>Waste management:<\/strong> Spent plastic media mixed with stripped paint is non-hazardous waste in most jurisdictions, simplifying disposal. However, if stripping lead-containing paint, the spent media becomes contaminated hazardous waste regardless of the media type.<\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n\n  <p>For a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of plastic media against all major abrasive types across key technical parameters, see the <a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/blasting-media-comparison-blasting-media-chart\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Blasting Media Comparison Chart<\/a>. For guidance on selecting the right media for your specific substrate and application, refer to the <a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/how-to-choose-the-right-blasting-media\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">complete blasting media selection guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n  <!-- SECTION 9 \u2014 FAQ -->\n  <h2 id=\"c7-faq\">9. Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n  <div class=\"c7-faq\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/FAQPage\">\n\n    <div class=\"c7-faq-item\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n      <button class=\"c7-faq-q\" onclick=\"c7ToggleFaq(this)\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n        <span itemprop=\"name\">What is plastic blast media used for?<\/span>\n        <i class=\"c7-faq-icon\">+<\/i>\n      <\/button>\n      <div class=\"c7-faq-a\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n        <div itemprop=\"text\">Plastic blast media is used to strip paint, coatings, and adhesives from substrates that cannot tolerate the aggression of mineral or metallic abrasives. Primary applications are thin-gauge aluminum aircraft skin panels, carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) and fiberglass composite aircraft structures, magnesium aerospace components, and thin aluminum automotive body panels. It removes coatings without measurably altering substrate dimensions, inducing warp, or severing reinforcing fibers \u2014 making it the only engineering-approved abrasive for the most sensitive aerospace and composite applications. It is also used in electronics for deflashing of plastic components and in marine composite maintenance.<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"c7-faq-item\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n      <button class=\"c7-faq-q\" onclick=\"c7ToggleFaq(this)\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n        <span itemprop=\"name\">What types of plastic blast media are available?<\/span>\n        <i class=\"c7-faq-icon\">+<\/i>\n      <\/button>\n      <div class=\"c7-faq-a\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n        <div itemprop=\"text\">Three main resin types are commercially available. Urea formaldehyde (Type I per MIL-P-85891) is the softest, with Mohs hardness ~3.0, and is used for the most delicate substrates \u2014 magnesium, very thin coatings, and the most sensitive composites. Melamine formaldehyde (Type II) at Mohs ~3.5 is the most versatile and widely used, suitable for aircraft aluminum skin stripping and most composite applications. Acrylic (Type III) at Mohs ~4.0 has the highest cutting action of the three and is used for thicker, harder coatings on less sensitive substrates. Mesh sizes range from 12 to 80 mesh across all resin types.<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"c7-faq-item\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n      <button class=\"c7-faq-q\" onclick=\"c7ToggleFaq(this)\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n        <span itemprop=\"name\">Will plastic blast media damage aluminum?<\/span>\n        <i class=\"c7-faq-icon\">+<\/i>\n      <\/button>\n      <div class=\"c7-faq-a\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n        <div itemprop=\"text\">Correctly specified and operated plastic blast media does not damage aluminum substrates \u2014 that is the fundamental reason for its existence. At the correct blast pressure (2\u20134 bar), correct standoff distance (150\u2013250 mm), correct blast angle (30\u201360\u00b0), and with the appropriate resin type and mesh grade, plastic media strips paint and coatings from aluminum without measurable dimensional change, surface stress, or roughening of the base metal. Exceeding the approved pressure or operating closer than the specified standoff distance, however, can cause surface stress on thin panels. Always follow the applicable OEM process specification for aerospace aluminum applications.<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"c7-faq-item\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n      <button class=\"c7-faq-q\" onclick=\"c7ToggleFaq(this)\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n        <span itemprop=\"name\">Can plastic blast media be reused?<\/span>\n        <i class=\"c7-faq-icon\">+<\/i>\n      <\/button>\n      <div class=\"c7-faq-a\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n        <div itemprop=\"text\">Yes. In a recirculating cabinet blast system with a properly tuned classifier, plastic blast media typically achieves 20\u201350 reuse cycles before the working particle size and condition fall below acceptable thresholds. The classifier continuously removes sub-size broken particles and paint contamination from the working charge. Recycle life depends on blast pressure (higher pressure accelerates fracture), the hardness of the coating being stripped, and the resin type (acrylic is toughest and lasts longest). The working charge should be regularly inspected and topped up with fresh media to maintain consistent stripping performance.<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"c7-faq-item\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n      <button class=\"c7-faq-q\" onclick=\"c7ToggleFaq(this)\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n        <span itemprop=\"name\">Can plastic blast media remove rust?<\/span>\n        <i class=\"c7-faq-icon\">+<\/i>\n      <\/button>\n      <div class=\"c7-faq-a\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n        <div itemprop=\"text\">No. Plastic blast media at Mohs 3\u20134 has insufficient hardness to remove rust, mill scale, or hardened corrosion deposits from metal surfaces. It will strip the paint or coating over a corroded area, exposing the corrosion beneath, but it cannot treat the corrosion itself. For rust removal from carbon steel, angular mineral abrasives such as aluminum oxide or garnet are required. Plastic media and rust removal serve completely different purposes and are not interchangeable.<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- RELATED RESOURCES -->\n  <h2 style=\"margin-top:44px;\">Related Resources<\/h2>\n  <p>Explore the full blasting media resource library from Jiangsu Henglihong Technology for further selection guidance and application-specific recommendations:<\/p>\n  <ul>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/blasting-media\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Blasting Media: Complete Industry Guide<\/a> \u2014 full overview of all media types and applications<\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/types-of-blasting-media-complete-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Types of Blasting Media: Complete Guide<\/a> \u2014 how plastic media compares to all other abrasive types<\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/how-to-choose-the-right-blasting-media\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Choose the Right Blasting Media<\/a> \u2014 step-by-step selection framework and substrate matrix<\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/aluminum-oxide-blast-media-uses-grit-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Aluminum Oxide Blast Media<\/a> \u2014 angular mineral abrasive for steel and hard substrate preparation<\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/glass-bead-blasting-media-finish-applications\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Glass Bead Blasting Media<\/a> \u2014 spherical media for smooth finishing on aluminum and stainless<\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/garnet-blasting-media-eco-friendly-high-performance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Garnet Blasting Media<\/a> \u2014 low-dust mineral abrasive for steel and pipeline applications<\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/silicon-carbide-blast-media-hardest-abrasive-explained\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Silicon Carbide Blast Media<\/a> \u2014 for glass, ceramics, and the hardest substrates<\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/blasting-media-for-automotive-restoration\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Blasting Media for Automotive Restoration<\/a> \u2014 component-by-component media recommendations<\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/steel-grit-vs-steel-shot-which-should-you-use\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Steel Grit vs Steel Shot<\/a> \u2014 metallic abrasives for high-volume production blasting<\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/blasting-media-comparison-blasting-media-chart\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Blasting Media Comparison Chart<\/a> \u2014 side-by-side data for all major abrasives<\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/blasting-media-cost-guide-price-per-pound-roi\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Blasting Media Cost Guide &amp; ROI Analysis<\/a> \u2014 cost-per-m\u00b2 benchmarks<\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/eco-friendly-blasting-media-low-dust-silica-free-options\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Eco-Friendly Blasting Media<\/a> \u2014 silica-free and low-dust options for regulated environments<\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/industrial-surface-prep-best-blasting-media-for-metal\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Industrial Surface Prep: Best Blasting Media for Metal<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/blasting-media-safety-guide-silica-risks-ppe\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Blasting Media Safety Guide: Silica Risks &amp; PPE<\/a><\/li>\n  <\/ul>\n\n  <!-- CTA -->\n  <div class=\"c7-cta\">\n    <h2>Source Plastic Blast Media from a Trusted Manufacturer<\/h2>\n    <p>Jiangsu Henglihong Technology supplies urea, melamine, and acrylic plastic blast media in MIL-P-85891 grades, with full documentation and reliable sea freight export to North America, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.<\/p>\n    <a class=\"c7-cta-btn\" href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/contact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Request a Quote or Technical Sample<\/a>\n  <\/div>\n\n<\/article>\n\n<!-- ===== FAQ ACCORDION SCRIPT ===== -->\n<script>\n(function() {\n  function c7ToggleFaq(btn) {\n    var item = btn.parentElement;\n    var isOpen = item.classList.contains('open');\n    document.querySelectorAll('.c7-faq-item').forEach(function(el) {\n      el.classList.remove('open');\n      var b = el.querySelector('.c7-faq-q');\n      if (b) b.setAttribute('aria-expanded', 'false');\n    });\n    if (!isOpen) {\n      item.classList.add('open');\n      btn.setAttribute('aria-expanded', 'true');\n    }\n  }\n  window.c7ToggleFaq = c7ToggleFaq;\n})();\n<\/script>\n\n<!-- ===== ON-PAGE SEO NOTES (remove before publishing) =====\nMETA TITLE (\u226460 chars):\n  Plastic Blast Media: Aerospace & Automotive Guide 2026\n\nMETA DESCRIPTION (\u2264155 chars):\n  Complete guide to plastic blast media \u2014 resin types, mesh grades, aerospace specs (MIL-P-85891), CFRP & aluminum applications, operating parameters & safety.\n\nPRIMARY KEYWORD: plastic blast media\nSECONDARY: plastic blasting media, plastic blast media aerospace, plastic media blasting aluminum, plastic abrasive media, MIL-P-85891 plastic media\n\nFEATURED SNIPPET OPPORTUNITIES:\n  - \"What is plastic blast media used for?\" \u2192 FAQ item 1 targets PAA\n  - \"Types of plastic blast media\" \u2192 Section 2 resin cards + FAQ item 2 targets Featured Snippet\n  - \"Will plastic blast media damage aluminum?\" \u2192 FAQ item 3 targets high-intent PAA\n  - Mesh grade table \u2192 targets table snippet for \"plastic blast media grades\"\n\nINTERNAL LINKS:\n  \u2192 Pillar (blasting-media\/) \u00d72\n  \u2192 types-of-blasting-media \u00d71\n  \u2192 how-to-choose \u00d72\n  \u2192 aluminum-oxide \u00d72\n  \u2192 glass-bead \u00d72\n  \u2192 garnet \u00d72\n  \u2192 steel-grit-vs-shot \u00d71\n  \u2192 silicon-carbide \u00d71\n  \u2192 automotive \u00d72\n  \u2192 industrial-metal \u00d71\n  \u2192 eco-friendly \u00d71\n  \u2192 cost-guide \u00d71\n  \u2192 comparison-chart \u00d72\n  \u2192 safety \u00d71\n\nJS namespace: c7ToggleFaq \u2014 fully isolated.\nAll dates: March 2026.\nNo \"Cluster N\" references in visible content.\n===== END SEO NOTES ===== -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In-Depth Product Guide \u00b7 March 2026 Plastic Blast Media for  [&#8230;]<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":12839,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[62,175,138],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12808","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","category-industry","category-resource"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12808","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12808"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12808\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12810,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12808\/revisions\/12810"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12839"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12808"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12808"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12808"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}