Abrasive machining methods are used in machining of precision components with stringent size and surface quality constraints, such as medical devices and automotive components. Depending on the work material, grinding wheels made out of different abrasives like, aluminium oxide, CBN or diamond, removes material in the form of micron sized chips. During machining, the abrasives undergo wear and lose their cutting ability. Subsequently, the performance of abrasive tools deteriorates over time without reconditioning of the tool. As a result, controlled removal of abrasives and/or its bonding materials are crucial mechanisms to be addressed in reconditioning of fixed abrasive tools. So, this article reviews the mechanical, electro-physical and chemical material removal mechanisms and their role in self-sharpening of fixed abrasive tools which pave the way for sustainable machining process. © IAEME Publication.