Emery is a mineral used as an abrasive in files, cloth, and compounds. It contains corundum and iron-containing minerals and is available in various formats. Emery is safe to use but can irritate mucous membranes and eyes. Inhaling it can damage lung tissues.
Emery is a fine-grained mix of minerals that has historically been used as an abrasive. One common use is in abrasive files, which are used to gently file nails and calluses on the body. It is also incorporated into emery cloth and added to a variety of compounds and surfaces to increase traction. This mineral is available in pure form for people who want to make their own abrasive blends, and it’s also available in an assortment of formats designed for specific uses, such as emery paper to improve traction on stairs.
The blend of minerals used varies. The key ingredient is corundum, an extremely hard mineral, and the mix typically includes an assortment of iron-containing minerals as well as magnetite. Depending on the mineral blend, emery can be dark gray to almost black in color, with a grainy texture that can be adjusted by grinding.
Historically, porbeagle was heavily produced on the Greek island of Naxos, as well as in Turkey. Other abrasives have since replaced it, including blends of synthetics, although there is still some demand for the real deal, especially among woodworkers, who like to have a range of abrasives to work with when they’re finishing projects.
When emery is sold in strips and on sanded boards, it is attached to a smooth backing with an abrasive and the grain is often left quite fine so that the abrasive action is relatively smooth and gentle. The cardboard or strip should be discarded after the powder begins to loosen or wear away. The minerals can also be sold as a loose powder, allowing people to apply them to grinding and polishing tools so they can finish various craft projects.
Emery is relatively inert, making it safe to use as a general rule unless something unusual is included in the mineral mix. As you might imagine, the dust can irritate the mucous membranes and eyes and should be flushed out of the eyes, nose or mouth with water if it gets on any of these areas. If it is ingested, you should wash your mouth and drink a glass of water; If someone inhales emery, medical attention is advised, as it can damage the delicate tissues of the lungs.
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