Present knowledge and perspectives on the role of copper in brake materials and related environmental issues: A critical assessment

• Published in: Environmental pollution (1987) Vol. 207; pp. 211 - 219
• Main Authors: Straffelini, Giovanni, Ciudin, Rodica, Ciotti, Alessandro, Gialanella, Stefano
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier Ltd 01.12.2015
• Subjects: Atmospheric pollution; Brake pad; Copper - toxicity; Copper-free brakes; Humans; Motor Vehicles; Particulate matter; Particulate Matter - toxicity; Vehicle Emissions; Wear debris characterization; Atmospheric pollution; Copper-free brakes; Brake pad; Particulate matter; Wear debris characterization
• ISSN: 0269-7491; 1873-6424
• DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2015.09.024

This critical review presents several aspects related to the use of copper as a main component in brake pads in road vehicles. The compositions of these materials are attracting increasing interest and concern due to the relative contribution of wear products to particulate matter emissions in the environment as a result of braking action even though there has been a reduction in exhaust products from internal combustion engines. We review the data on the main wear mechanisms in brake systems and highlight the positive role of copper. However, similar to other heavy metal emissions, even the release of copper into the atmosphere may have important environmental and health effects. Thus, several replacement strategies are being pursued, and the positive and negative features will be critically reviewed. Additionally, the future perspectives in materials development will be discussed. [Display omitted] •Copper in brake pad materials: role and concerns.•Environmental and health impact of copper.•Copper replacement in frictional brake materials.•International legislation and standards on the above issues. Importance of copper in brake pad materials and concern as regards environmental and health impact of its emission as brake wear product.