Cobra Phases

1 - PREPARATORY ACTIONS

Definition and characterization of the best cementitious formula  to obtain brake pads featuring state-of-the-art performance. Optimization of raw materials, including friction compound and cementitious mix, subjecting cementitious pads to several tests including   PM emissions. Formalization of well-defined targets and parameters for the pilot lines and the environmental indicators to be monitored.

2 – DESIGNING OF THE PILOT LINES

Designing of the pilot lines according to the parameters and targets  defined in Phase 1. The COBRA pilot lines for cementitious brake pads production include a pilot line for the preparation of the cementitious mix and a pilot line for the preparation of the cementitious brake pads.

3 – REALIZATION OF THE PILOT LINES

Scheduling of the activities to successfully complete the pilot lines, from the assembly plan of the pilot lines to the realisation and validation in compliance with the applicable EU and national directives and laws.

4 – PROTOTYPE TESTING

Fine tuning of the pilot lines. Consolidation of the specifications of the pilot lines vis-à-vis their expected performance.  Realization of cementitious mix prototype to be tested for compliance with the requirements as defined in Phase 1. Realisation of brake pad prototypes consisting of different kinds of mixes with different physico-chemical characteristics. The most promising  prototypes will be selected for the manufacturing process fine-tuning.

5 – INDUSTRIAL VALIDATION OF THE PILOT LINES

Validation and assessment of the pilot lines. The pilot lines will be optimised with respect to the operational parameters and  verified to be in compliance with the production process requirements, including regulations and standards.

6 – EVALUATION OF THE TOXICITY ASSESSMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Concurrently to all previous phases, evaluation of the impact of the pollutants emitted from braking tests on human health and
ecosystems using different human cell lines cultured in vitro and some simplified model organisms of aquatic and terrestrial animals and plants. Application of risk assessment methods and Life Cycle Assessment approaches to demonstrate the environmental advantages of the novel brake pads to the wide public, policy makers and end-users.

7 – EVALUATION OF THE NOVEL PRODUCT POTENTIAL IN THE MARKET SCENARIO

Analysis  of  data and information collected from  industrial stakeholders, academia, suppliers and end-users aimed at evaluating the market needs, marketability options and market uptake of the novel brake pads and  related forecasts. Estimation of the return on investment of the cementitious mix bags and novel brake pads and definition of future research paths in terms of brake pad performance and sustainability.