Comparative assessment of the performance of friction materials based on different agricultural wastes

The composition of friction materials is being revolutionised to exclude contentious components. This work comparatively used palm kernel shells, maize husks, cocoa bean shells and melon shells separately with seven other component materials to achieve novel friction materials. Friction and wear of the friction materials were measured using the test rig designed and constructed in-house for this research. Results showed that the maize husk-based friction material performed greatest in terms of thermal stability, wear, porosity and water absorption. Their thermal stability level indicates suitability for use in low-speed passenger cars and other allied braking applications. Using the selected agricultural residues in place of the contentious components in traditional friction materials would potentially solve health and environmental safety challenges.