What type of material are brake pads commonly made of?

Brake pads are primarily made from organic, semi-metallic, or ceramic compounds. Each of these materials offers distinct benefits in terms of braking performance, durability, and heat dissipation.

Organic brake pads are composed of materials such as rubber, resins, and other non-metallic elements. They are known for producing less noise and generating less dust, making them a popular choice for everyday vehicles.

Semi-metallic brake pads, on the other hand, contain a blend of metals (often copper or steel fibers) combined with other materials. This combination provides excellent heat transfer and stopping power, making them well-suited for high-performance vehicles or heavy-duty applications.

Ceramic brake pads are manufactured using a dense ceramic material mixed with other components. They are praised for their quiet operation, low dust production, and ability to maintain performance over a wide range of temperatures.

The other options mentioned, while they may contain some components related to braking systems, do not accurately represent the primary materials used in brake pad manufacturing. For example, plastic and rubber may not withstand the high temperatures generated during braking, and metal-only pads may not provide the desired friction characteristics without the inclusion of other components. Wood and fabric, while historically relevant, are not commonly used in modern brake pad production