This work pioneers the development of eco-friendly brake pads using coconut fiber
and sawdust as reinforcement materials, combined with abrasives and friction
modifiers. The innovation lies in the utilization of these natural fibers, which
are not only cost-effective and abundantly available but also contribute to the
sustainability of brake pad manufacturing. The study aims to explore the
feasibility and performance of these organic fibers in brake pad applications.
Coconut fiber and sawdust were chosen for their unique properties, such as high
strength-to-weight ratio and thermal stability, making them ideal candidates for
enhancing brake pad performance. The inclusion of abrasives and friction
modifiers further optimizes the braking efficiency and durability of the pads.
Comprehensive testing was conducted, including hardness, compression, wear
(using a pin-on-disc apparatus), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), to
thoroughly evaluate the mechanical properties and thermal stability of the
fabricated brake pads. The results demonstrated that the brake pads possess
satisfactory hardness, compression strength, and wear resistance, aligning with
industry standards for organic brake pads. Notably, the TGA indicated excellent
thermal stability, even under elevated temperatures, underscoring the material’s
robustness. This project underscores the potential of using coconut fiber and
sawdust in the formulation of organic brake pads, offering a sustainable and
high-performance alternative to conventional materials. The novelty of this work
lies in the strategic selection and combination of natural fibers with advanced
testing to validate their application in automotive braking systems. Future
research will focus on optimizing the composition and refining the manufacturing
processes to further enhance performance and environmental benefits, paving the
way for more sustainable practices in the automotive industry.