Abrasive article with embossed isolation layer and methods of making and using

An abrasive article, comprising:

• a) an embossed isolation layer defining inversely contoured first and second surfaces with a plurality of peaks on the first surface producing a plurality of pockets on the second surface,
• b) grinding aid-containing protrusions positioned within the pockets and adhered to the second surface of the isolation layer, wherein the grinding aid is selected from the group consisting of halogenated thermoplastics sulfonated thermoplastics, waxes, halogenated waxes, sulfonated waxes, and mixtures thereof, and wherein the first surface of the isolation layer includes peaks having protrusion apexes and valleys having base layer nadirs, and
• c) a coating of abrasive particles adhered to the contoured first surface of the isolation layer and defining (i) abrasive coated peaks with each peak having an abrasive coated apex, and (ii) abrasive coated valleys with each abrasive coated valley having an abrasive coated nadir,
• d) wherein the apex of a majority of the protrusions extend above at least one adjoining abrasive coated nadir.