Abstract: A composition that can be used for abrasive processing is disclosed. The composition includes an organic bond material, an abrasive material dispersed in the organic bond material, and a plurality of microfibers uniformly dispersed in the organic bond material. The microfibers are individual filaments having an average length of less than about 1000 ?m. Abrasive articles made with the composition exhibit improved strength and impact resistance relative to non-reinforced abrasive tools, and improved wheel wear rate and G-ratio relative to conventional reinforced tools. Active fillers that interact with microfibers may be used to further abrasive process benefits.

Abstract: A polishing slurry, useful in optical or CMP applications, comprises a ceria with a BET surface area of at least 10 m2/gm. The slurry may be made by subjecting a commercial ceria slurry comprising agglomerates to a mechano-chemical treatment at a pH of from 9 to 11 using media that are low purity alpha alumina or zirconia. Preferred slurries maintain a positive surface charge at all pH values. CMP slurries preferably comprise in addition an anionic surfactant to aid in removal of surface residues.

Abstract: A solid granular propping agent is disclosed having a Krumbein number of greater than 0.8, and containing granules between 0.2 and 1.7 mm in diameter, said granules being made from an unblended clay containing from 16 to 19% of silica, less than 0.35% alkali and alkaline earth metal oxides, and being fired at a time and temperature whereby the product contains a major mullite phase and a minor alpha alumina phase.