Optimization of tribological properties of cement kiln dust-filled brake pad using grey relation analysis

Cement kiln dust (CKD) filled with different resin (straight phenolic, cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) modified, Linseed oil modified, Alkyl-benzene modified) based brake pad formulations were fabricated and characterized their physical, mechanical and tribological properties. Tribo-performance of the fabricated brake pad formulations were evaluated on a Krauss type friction tester as per the ECE R-90 (Economic Commission for Europe Regulation-90) norms. The experimental results indicated that CKD and straight phenolic resin combination were proved best in terms of coefficient of friction, friction stability, and friction fluctuations, but inferior in wear performance and counterface friendliness. The combinations of CKD and CNSL/Linseed oil modified resin were most beneficial for enhancing both recovery and wear performance as well as reducing variability in friction. The formulation with CKD and Alkyl-benzene modified resin was observed the best fade performance and counterface friendliness. The results obtained were considered as criteria and grey relation analysis (GRA) approach was used to determine the complete ranking of the brake pad formulation. The results also concluded that the formulation of CKD with straight phenolic resin exhibits the optimal properties. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.