PROCESS PARAMETERS OPTIMIZATION OF GREEN BRAKEPADS FROM WASTE NKO-NKO SEASHELLS BY CENTRAL COMPOSITE DESIGN.

This study investigates the optimization of the process parameters in the development of ecofriendly brakepads from wastes nko-nko (Thais Coronata L.) seashell (NSS) reinforcement materials by central composite face-centered (CCF) design. The brakepad composites were developed by compression moulding. NSS brakepads samples were developed based on 3-levels of 3-factors: curing time C_t, curing temperature C_T, and moulding pressure M_P. Multivariate quadratic models, signal-to-noise ratio, and ANOVA were used for optimization. The determined optimal process parameters of the developed NSS brakepads were M_P = 13MPa, C_T = 165°C, and C_t = 3h. The properties of the developed NSS samples were comparable with those of 2 control samples. EDX spectroscopy showed toxic heavy metals (7-40% Sb, 6.44-12.88%Ti) presence in the control samples, unlike the NSS samples. Comparatively, the green NSS samples showed superior mechanical and tribological performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]