Media blasting, also known as sandblasting, is a process in which an abrasive material such as sand, baking soda, steel shot or glass beads is blasted at high pressure against a surface in order to remove rust, paint, contaminants, and other unwanted materials. The abrasive material is propelled by compressed air or by a centrifugal wheel. Media blasting is used in a variety of industries including automotive, construction, and marine. It is an effective way to prepare a surface for a new coating or finish.