A TEM snapshot of magnetite formation in brakes: The role of the discʹs cast iron graphite lamellae in third body formation

A cross-section sample of the friction film formed on top of a disc during a brake testing procedure against Polymer Matrix Composite pads was made using a Focused Ion Beam (FIB). The FIB-cut sampled the “third body” magnetite layer and the upper part of the cast iron disc containing a graphite flake. Images of the sample examined in a Energy Filtered Transmission Electron Microscope captured an instant view of the important role of the graphite flakes in magnetite formation, where few layer graphene batches interacted with the iron border promoting cracking and oxidation along the graphite–iron interface. The resulting nano-scale interlayer of magnetite and strongly disordered graphite formed a third body which yielded adequate brake performance.