Looking for a word to represent metal particles produced when polishing metal
Solution 1:
The technical term for the waste resulting from metal processing is "swarf." Swarf contains both metal fragments and bits of abrasive if the processing involves abrading. The former alone are called "shavings," "turnings," and "filings" according to the type of processing.
Solution 2:
Is it spark that you are looking for?
spark 1 (spärk)
n.
- An incandescent particle, especially:
a. One thrown off from a burning substance.
b. One resulting from friction.
c. One remaining in an otherwise extinguished fire; an ember.
Definition from the Free Dictionary