Investigation on the tribological behavior of aluminium titanate ceramic-based non-asbestos brake pads for passenger cars

Abstract

This research focuses on the development of non-asbestos brake pads for passenger vehicles, incorporating ceramic aluminium titanate (Al₂TiO₅) as the theme abrasive ingredient. Three brake pad formulations were fabricated: BP-1 and BP-2, which contained aluminium titanate of different particle sizes (600 μm and 400 μm respectively), and BP-3, which was based on calcium sulfate. The physical, chemical and mechanical properties of these brake pads were characterized following industrial standards. Tribological performance was assessed through full-scale inertia brake dynamometer testing per JASO-C-406:2000, simulating real-world braking conditions. Microstructural analysis, including Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM) and elemental mapping, revealed distinct wear mechanisms for each formulation. BP-1 demonstrated superior friction consistency, minimal wear, attributed to its optimized particle size distribution and strong matrix bonding. In contrast, BP-2 exhibited moderate performance, while BP-3 showed the highest material loss due to weaker bonding. This study highlights aluminium titanate’s potential as a sustainable and effective ceramic abrasive, offering enhanced braking performance and reducing environmental concerns.