Based on the impact mechanism and fluid wedge effect of the high-pressure fluid jet, a new approach to raw salt comminution has been worked out. The fluid jet comminution process has a unique characteristic of providing a fine appearance for the product particle as well as a high washing efficiency. Dissolution of raw salt and loss of product are avoided owing to saturated sodium chloride solution used as high-pressure medium. Compared with mechanical comminution, the product processed by this technique has higher quality and better appearance. The working condition is also improved since the comminution is operated under wet conditions. Also, this approach has the potential to be used to comminute the thermally sensitive, inflammable and explosive materials. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.