Physio-Mechanical Investigation of Hemp Fibre Reinforced Brake Pad Materials

Abstract

Brake pads are the most important component of the automobile braking system and they play an important role in safe riding. Brake pads convert the kinetic energy of the vehicle into thermal energy by the use of friction. Different types of brake pads such as metallic brake pad, semi-metallic, ceramic brake pad have been evolved till date. These brake pads contribute a major share in non-exhaust brake wear debris and pollution causing fatal health issues. Replacement of metal and mineral fibres with potential candidate natural fibre can reduce hazardous pollution.  In recent years the amount of research on natural fibres and natural fibre-based composites has increased substantially in brake pads, as they were lightweight, biodegradable and cheap. In this paper, three brake pad specimens (C1, C2, C3) were fabricated with hemp fibre along with basalt fibre and aluminium fibre using the compression moulding technique. The physio mechanical properties such as density, water absorption, hardness etc. were tested as per ASTM and ISO standards. The experimental and mathematical results were validated. The impact fractures of the composites were analysed by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results revealed that the composition of hemp along with basalt (C2) gave better physio mechanical properties like hardness, impact and compressive strength.