Abstract

This study centres on the development of epoxy matrix composites using different date-palm compositions. In the study, the composites composed of date palm seed powder (30%, 35% and 40%), metal chips (10%, 10%, and 15%) and graphite (10%, 15%, and 15%) whereas aluminium oxide, epoxy resin and hardener were kept consistent at 5%, 20%, and 10% individually. XRD diffractogram of the produced composite indicated an amorphous nature; however a major peak reflection was observed at 31.420 for samples containing 30% date palm seed particles, indicating an increasing crystallinity. The presence of O-H, C-H and C=O were observed from FT-IR analysis. Compressive strength, hardness and frictional coefficient decreased with increasing date palm seed content while wear rate, density values are more favourable compared to conventional brake lining with sample containing 35% date palm seed particles at 1.66 g/cm3. For oil and water absorption, 30wt% and 35wt% date palm content both demonstrated their ability to absorb water and oil, with 30wt% exhibiting better moisture retention over time. Analysis of results show that the onset degradation temperature, final degradation temperature, per cent weight loss (%) and residue after final degradation (%) were 44.41 ºC, 506.57 ºC, 94.1% and 5.19%, respectively.

Key words: Brake pad lining, Date-palm seed, Absorption, X-ray Diffraction, Hardnes and Epoxy composite, Frictional coefficient and Wear