Friction, wear, and hardness properties of hybrid vehicle brake pads and effects on brake disc roughness

Abstract Considering the emerging importance of a sustainable green environment today, this study contributed to realizing resource sustainability by expanding the use of natural materials in the brake pad sector. Brake pads used in vehicle applications were developed using natural components, and their effects on brake performance properties were observed in brake pad samples containing four different amounts of natural components with additive rates of 0 %, 4 %, 8 %, and 12 %. Tests were conducted on the pad tester to determine the samples’ friction coefficient and wear rates. Hardness measurements were made with a Shore D measuring device. Average and maximum disc roughness were measured to determine the effect of brake pads on the brake disc. Microscopic analyses were performed with a scanning electron microscope. The results showed that using tamarind seed powder in the pad content created a synergy with alumina, brass powder, and graphite as friction modifiers, and the friction coefficient increased slightly. Considering the emerging importance of a sustainable green environment today, it has been determined that using natural materials contributes to realizing resource sustainability by expanding its application in the brake pad sector and positively affecting the brake system disc roughness.