Correlation of tribological characteristics with Brake Emission Factors in automotive disc brakes

Following the recent introduction of the Euro 7 regulations, research on non-exhaust emissions, including brake wear particles, has increased. However, full-scale dynamometer tests are affected by complex variables such as vehicle class and brake system specifications, which makes it difficult to analyze the unique characteristics of friction materials independently. Previous studies have predominantly focused on comparing emission levels by friction material composition or on disc surface treatments, and quantitative correlations, resolved by friction material type, between the physical wear mass of friction materials and the Brake Emission Factor (BEF), remain scarce. In this study, the brake emissions from various friction materials were precisely measured using a scale dynamometer reflecting the UN-GTR No. 24 standards. By applying the WLTP cycle, a quantitative correlation was derived between the friction characteristics and the BEF for each braking section. The results show that BEF varies with friction material type depending on the friction- and wear-related factor, while disc wear and total wear were confirmed, regardless of friction material type, to be common key indicators that exhibit a statistically high correlation with BEF.