What’s the difference between diminishing and non-diminishing polishes? and more importantly, why is it important for you?

Diminishing Abrasives 

Diminishing abrasives like Ecoshine Polish F2, are non-linear abrasives that require kinetic (or dynamic) friction (a rotary/ da polisher does this trick). The majority of polishes on the market use a form of diminishing (non- linear) abrasive. This requires you polish to a ‘haze’ and remove it. As the name suggests – diminishing abrasives mean that over polishing, the abrasives become smaller with friction, and therefore go from removing paint defects to polishing the paint, which produces the shine.

If the abrasives is not broken down enough, you are just grinding those abrasive particles into your paint! 

Leaving behind marring and other paint surface imperfections. Not something desired… So it’s important to know when a polish has broken down because if you take it too far you will re-introduce surface marring.

True masters stop at the “Sweet spot”. It may take some experience and a good eye to discover it!

Pro Tip: During the polishing process, trace amounts of paint and / or oxidation is removed. This causes a buildup of debris and polish clumping together. When this causes a haze to the surface, a wipe-down with ecoclean precoat to remove it. Ecoclean Precoat is one of the most preferred surface prep of professional detailers worldwide for its incredible ability to remove trace oils effectively.

Non-Diminishing Abrasives (Standard Abrasives)

Standard Abrasives are linear abrasives that require time and pressure to cut the surface. Non-diminishing abrasives react very differently with diminishing polishes. Since the abrasives do not  change in its size, it continues to be abrasive so long as time and pressure applied. Of course, with the right pads as well!

Linear abrasive polishes or compounds, like Ecoclean Compound F1, provide a constant cutting abrasive. It also has ratings to it to allow users to use the appropriate cuts.  As the abrasives remains uniform in size throughout the polishing process, it is important to do frequent checks when polishing.

Pro Tip: When wiping off with a clean microfiber cloth, wipe in straight lines with Ecoclean Precoat. This will allow you to see if the marring is from the cloth or existing swirls. 

Standard abrasives like Ecoshine Compound F1 and Ecoshine Finish F3, should be used with a cutting foam or wool pad or microfiber pad until the defects are removed (1200 – 1500 RPM). Do not allow the polish too completely dry (as this will also produce holograms) and ensure that pad surface is cleaned by removing paint / polish debris regularly. This type of compound / polish process usually requires subsequent polishing step(s) to further refine the finish and to produce a shine, like Ecoshine Finish F3.

To understand more about which cutting compound is best for you, read more about it here.

More About IGL Coatings

For more information on our extensive range of innovative and sustainable coatings and products – visit www.iglcoatings.com for more information. IGL Coatings is a multi award winning, leading brand in North America. Available in more than 50 countries worldwide, get your hands on the latest products  and information now! 

Want to get the latest news and updates from IGL Coatings? Subscribe to our exclusive insider newsletter for Now!!