Green friction: Exploring the evolution and potential of natural fibers and other brake pad ingredients in sustainable automotive engineering—A review

Abstract With the growing environmental concerns and strict regulations, the shift from traditional brake pad materials such as copper, asbestos to eco‐friendly materials has become necessary. This review paper presents an in‐depth analysis of natural fibers (fibers obtained from plants) brake pads, an emerging sustainable alternative in automotive technology. Natural fibers such as jute, kenaf, flax etc. offers a good solution due to their renewable nature, low cost and reduced environmental impact. This paper explores the properties of natural fibers that make them suitable for use in brake pads including their thermal stability, wear resistance and ability to withstand high‐friction environments. It highlights the advantages and challenges of natural fiber composites particularly in terms of performance, durability, and noise reduction. The environmental benefits including biodegradability and reduced carbon footprint are discussed underscoring the role of natural fiber brake pads in promoting sustainable automotive practices. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current and future potential of natural fiber brake pads offering valuable insights for researchers and industries in the field of sustainable automotive engineering. Highlights Shift to natural fibers from asbestos and copper for eco‐friendly alternatives. Natural fibers offer biodegradability, low cost, and good mechanical properties. Fiber variability and moisture absorption pose challenges, needing treatments. Natural fibers reduce environmental impact, supporting sustainable practices. More research is needed on fiber treatment and standardized testing protocols.