RESUMO
Brake friction materials (BFMs) have a critical role in ensuring the safety as well as the reliability of automotive braking systems. However, traditional BFMs, typically made from asbestos, are associated with environmental and health concerns. Therefore, this results in a growing interest in developing alternative BFMs that are eco-friendly, sustainable, and cost-effective. This study investigates the effect of varying concentrations of epoxy, rice husk, alumina (Al2O3), and iron oxide (Fe2O3) on the mechanical and thermal properties of BFMs prepared using the hand layup method. In this study, the rice husk, Al2O3, and Fe2O3 were filtered through a 200-mesh sieve. Note that the BFMs were fabricated using different combinations and concentrations of the materials. Their mechanical properties, such as density, hardness, flexural strength, wear resistance, and thermal properties, were investigated. The results suggest that the concentrations of the ingredients significantly influence the mechanical and thermal properties of the BFMs. A specimen made from epoxy, rice husk, Al2O3, and Fe2O3 with concentrations of 50 wt.%, 20 wt.%, 15 wt.%, and 15 wt.%, respectively, produced the best properties for BFMs. On the other hand, the density, hardness, flexural strength, flexural modulus, and wear rate values of this specimen were 1.23 g/cm3, 81.2 Vickers (HV), 57.24 MPa, 4.08 GPa, and 8.665 × 10-7 mm2/kg. In addition, this specimen had better thermal properties than the other specimens. These findings provide valuable insights into developing eco-friendly and sustainable BFMs with suitable performance for automotive applications.
RESUMO
The braking system is a crucial element in automotive safety. In order for the braking mechanism to function effectively, the brake pads' durability as well as quality are crucial aspects to take into account. A brake pad is a part of a vehicle that holds the wheel rotation so that braking can occur. Asbestos, which is harmful to human health, is a raw material that is recently being widely used as a material mixture for the manufacturing of brake pads. Many efforts have been made by researchers to find other natural alternative materials to replace the use of asbestos. Natural materials that have received much attention and research include coconut fiber, wood powder or flour, bamboo fiber, shell powder, etc. This review paper focuses on analyzing the main parameters that affect brake pad performance. The composition of filler and fiber types of reinforcement for polymer composites is discussed. Previous studies' information on the fabrication and testing of brake pads are also highlighted. Furthermore, the findings of this review can provide researchers and academicians with useful information and points to consider for further research.
