Modulus of elasticity and strength properties of dental cements

The modulus of elasticity of commercial dental cements was determined by an optical strain gauge method. Values of compressive and tensile strengths also were measured. Of the cements of primary consistency tested, a noneugenol zinc oxide cement had the lowest mechanical properties. A zinc phosphate cement had the highest value of compressive strength and modulus, but a zinc polyacrylate cement had the highest tensile strength. A zinc polyacrylate cement base had the highest tensile strength, but a zinc phosphate cement base had the highest compressive strength and modulus of elasticity. A calcium hydroxide liner had higher mechanical properties than an unmodified ZOE liner.