r0-vein: Sustainable Copper Alternative Friction Enhancer

r0-vein is a high-performance sustainable friction modifier, developed from upcycled layered iron oxides from an industrial by-product. Its main function is to act as a direct, high-performance substitute for copper, serving as a "prefabricated primary plateau" to enable the development of next-generation copper-free formulations.

Copper's key tribological role is to act as a primary plateau (a stable contact point) that facilitates the formation of the transfer layer (tribofilm), also known as the secondary plateau. r0-vein is engineered with a lamellar structure that perfectly mimics this function. It provides stable sites on the pad's surface that promote the creation and anchoring of a robust tribofilm, which is essential for stable friction and low wear.

In a direct comparison against a sulfide-based formulation, r0-vein demonstrates superior performance, offering a higher and more stable coefficient of friction at high temperatures and, crucially, significantly better wear resistance across the entire thermal range. This translates into greater pad durability and enhanced safety under demanding braking conditions.

Yes, and this is one of its greatest strengths. r0-vein exhibits a powerful synergistic effect when combined with additives like metal sulfides. This allows formulators to move beyond simple substitution, giving them the ability to create custom friction profiles by precisely balancing friction level, wear, and NVH properties to meet the most specific targets.

r0-vein is a flagship product of the circular economy. By upcycling an industrial by-product, it eliminates the environmental impact associated with copper mining and processing. It has an exceptionally low carbon footprint (GWP of 0.11 kg CO2e), making it an essential component for manufacturers aiming to comply with the strictest environmental regulations and the automotive industry's ambitious decarbonization goals.