In a significant stride towards sustainable and safer brake pad production, researchers have developed a novel composite material that could revolutionize the automotive industry. The study, led by Dr. Injorn Oryina Mbaadega from the Department of Chemical, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering at Tshwane University of Technology in South Africa, explores the potential of periwinkle shell (PS) and palm kernel shell (PKS) as eco-friendly alternatives to asbestos.
Asbestos has long been the go-to material for brake pads due to its durability and heat resistance. However, its health hazards, non-biodegradability, and high cost have prompted a global search for safer and more sustainable alternatives. Dr. Mbaadega’s research, published in the European Journal of Materials Science and Engineering (or in English, the European Journal of Materials Science and Engineering), offers a promising solution.
The study focuses on creating hybrid composites using agro-waste materials—periwinkle shells and palm kernel shells—as reinforcements in an epoxy matrix. “The uniqueness of our composites lies in combining the high thermal resistance of periwinkle shells with the mechanical strength of palm kernel shells,” Dr. Mbaadega explained. “This combination not only makes the material cost-effective but also environmentally sustainable.”
The researchers produced the composites with optimized particle sizes ranging from 100 to 125 micrometers in various PS-PKS proportions. They evaluated the mechanical and tribological properties of these composites, discovering that finer particles significantly reduced porosity, improved wear resistance, and enhanced hardness. The best formulations achieved coefficients of friction between 0.35 and 0.44 and wear rates ranging from 0.017 to 0.170 mm/min, comparable to commercial brake pads.
Thermal analysis revealed that periwinkle shells remain stable above 600°C, while palm kernel shells decompose in stages between 54 and 538°C. These findings underscore the potential of PS/PKS-epoxy composites as high-performance, environmentally sustainable alternatives to asbestos-based materials.
The implications for the automotive and energy sectors are substantial. As the world shifts towards greener technologies, the demand for eco-friendly and high-performance materials is on the rise. Dr. Mbaadega’s research could pave the way for the development of safer, more sustainable brake pads, reducing the environmental impact of the automotive industry.
Moreover, the use of agro-waste materials like periwinkle and palm kernel shells not only provides a sustainable solution but also offers economic benefits. These materials are abundant and inexpensive, making them an attractive option for manufacturers looking to reduce costs and enhance sustainability.
As the industry continues to evolve, the development of such innovative materials will be crucial in meeting the growing demand for environmentally friendly and high-performance products. Dr. Mbaadega’s research represents a significant step forward in this direction, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable materials in the automotive and energy sectors.