Abstract: Phenolic based Kevlar-lapinus fiber combinations reinforced composite friction materials are designed, fabricated and characterized for their thermal and fade performance. The thermal stability behavior is evaluated via Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) in nitrogen atmosphere. The fade performance is evaluated on a Krauss friction testing machine by using a standard test protocol conforming to ECE R-90 regulation. In general, it is found that higher lapinus fibre based friction materials shows the relatively lower percent of weight loss or higher thermal stability and enhanced fade performance relative to higher Kevlar fibre based friction materials.

Keywords: TGA, Friction material, Kevlar fibre, Lapinus fibre, Fade.