Liivapaber

Liivapaber is the Estonian term for sandpaper, an abrasive material used to smooth, shape, or finish surfaces by abrasion. A typical sheet or roll consists of abrasive grains bonded to a backing such as paper, cloth, or plastic film, with the grains held in place by a resin or glue binder. The backing and binder give the material strength, tear resistance, and, in some cases, water resistance for wet sanding.

Abrasive grains include aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, and ceramic materials. Silicon carbide is harder and sharper, suitable for hard metals and plastics; aluminum oxide is common for woodworking and metalworking. Grit size communicates coarseness; standard ranges are coarse (40–60), medium (80–120), fine (150–220), and very fine (320–600), with higher numbers for finishing and polishing. Standards such as FEPA or CAMI define the size distributions used in many countries.

Liivapaber is produced in various backing formats: sheets, rolls, belts, and discs, some with self-adhesive backs for quick mounting. It can be dry or designed for wet sanding. The choice of backing, grit, and abrasive material depends on the surface and material being worked, with woodworking typically favoring aluminum oxide on paper or cloth, while metalworking may use silicon carbide on flexible backings.

Using Liivapaber generically involves progressive sanding from coarser to finer grits, applying light, even pressure and, when appropriate, water for lubrication. Protective equipment, dust control, and proper disposal of sanding dust are recommended.

The manufacture of sanding papers expanded in the 19th and 20th centuries with synthetic abrasives and waterproof backings, making Liivapaber widely available for industry and hobbyist use.