Thermo-Mechanical Performance of Biomass-based Automobile Brake Pad

Abstract

The increasing global demand for sustainable, environmentally friendly brake pads, as well as the eradication of the potential health risk associated with asbestos-based brake pads, has necessitated the exploration of biomass-based alternatives in brake pad production. This study investigates the potential of producing brake pads from a blend of Palm Kernel Shell (PKS) and Plantain Peel (PP), two widely available agricultural wastes in the tropical regions. The PKS and PP were processed and mixed in varied proportions with appropriate binders to produce brake pad samples, which were then tested for performance. The key performance parameters evaluated were compressive strength, hardness, friction coefficient, wear resistance, and thermal stability. The findings indicate that PKS-PP-based brake pads exhibited satisfactory friction performance, structural integrity, and wear resistance comparable to the conventional asbestos-based brake pads. Moreover, the results show that the performance characteristics of the brake pad samples fall within the established industrial standards of 0.21 - 0.55, 2 - 5 mm³/Nm, 100 - 200 N/m², and 60-80 HRB for coefficients of friction, specific wear rate, compressive strength and Brinell hardness, respectively. Furthermore, these bio-composites also offered high thermal stability between 350 – 450^oC, making them suitable for vehicle braking systems. This study highlights the potential for using biomass wastes, such as palm kernel shell and plantain peel, to produce environmentally friendly brake pads in a safe, sustainable, and cost-effective manner, thereby contributing to waste reduction and the development of safer automotive components.