Production and characterization of asbestos-free brake lining material using agro wastes

Abstract

The health problems associated with the use of asbestos based brake linings have motivated research on the use of ecofriendly-agro based biomaterials as reinforcing agents in composite materials used for brake pad lining production. This research work studies the possibilities of using palm kernel shell (PKS), coconut shell (CNS), and canarium sweinfurthii shell (CSS) powder for asbestos-free brake lining materials production. The powders alongside the relevant fillers were used in the production of the brake lining. Compositions of the reinforcing powders were varied from 25% to 40% that of resin binder was varied from 58% to 43%, while those of filler metal and curing agents were kept constant. These materials were weighed, formulated, mixed, cured, and moulded. The developed composite materials were characterized and subjected to water and oil absorption, compressive strength, hardness, and wear tests. Results of the analysis revealed that increase in reinforcing materials results in an increase in the water and oil absorption of the samples. The composite’s compressive strength equally increased with the introduction of up to 35% composition. The measured value of coefficient of friction was found to be within an acceptable range. Also, when mixed with other fillers and bounded, CSS powder proved to be a very promising material for brake lining production.