Abrasives are materials used to wear away, smooth, or shape surfaces through friction. They are essential in processes such as grinding, polishing, cutting, and sandblasting, helping to achieve precise surface finishes or prepare materials for further treatment. Available in natural and synthetic forms, abrasives come in a variety of shapes, including grains, powders, and bonded tools like grinding wheels. Their applications span industries from metalworking and construction to electronics and automotive manufacturing.