you could just use any grit and wash it before use. sand would be substantially smaller particles than grit. plus with sand, you get several types, some best used in mortar, some best used inbetween pavers(without cement) and i would hazard you'd call them different names to what we'd label them in UK. most of this forum are UK residents, so no sure you'll get a great deal useful help here!
As Rik says, aquarium gravel will work well, but it's an expensive alternative. You need to avoid anything that will change the pH of the compost/soil so avoid anything with limestone. The type of sand used in the UK for gardening is known as sharp sand which is quite gritty. Avoid builders sand and soft sand - they will both have the opposite effect and may have contaminants. I guess even gravel (for driveways) would work depending on what your intended use is, but again avoid limestone gravel.
Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
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You need to avoid anything that will change the pH of the compost/soil so avoid anything with limestone.
The type of sand used in the UK for gardening is known as sharp sand which is quite gritty.
Avoid builders sand and soft sand - they will both have the opposite effect and may have contaminants.
I guess even gravel (for driveways) would work depending on what your intended use is, but again avoid limestone gravel.
Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
https://www.specialistaggregates.com/lecasup®sup-24mm-horticultural-grit-lightweight-aggregate-p-1646.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIuaum2vnx5gIVTLDtCh18tQ7CEAQYASABEgIjhPD_BwEr