Related Experiment Videos
Silica-filled elastomer/methacrylate systems as soft liners.
S N Nazhat1, S Parker, M Braden
1IRC in Biomedical Materials, Department of Biomaterials in Relation to Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK. s.nazhat@eastman.ucl.ac.uk
Journal of Biomaterials Science. Polymer Edition
|July 17, 2004
Summary
Silane-treated fumed silica improves denture soft lining materials by enhancing mechanical properties and reducing water absorption. This filler addition optimizes performance, particularly in materials with lower 1,6-hexandiol dimethacrylate (HDMA) content.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Denture soft lining materials require specific mechanical properties for load redistribution and dimensional stability.
- Controlling water uptake is crucial for the long-term performance and hygiene of soft lining materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of silane-treated fumed silica on the mechanical and absorption properties of experimental soft lining materials.
- To evaluate the influence of varying 1,6-hexandiol dimethacrylate (HDMA) content on these properties.
Main Methods:
- Experimental soft lining materials based on isoprene-styrene (SIS) block co-polymer and methyl methacrylate (MMA)/HDMA blends were prepared.
- Silane-treated fumed silica was incorporated as a filler at 10 wt%.
- Dynamic mechanical analysis (storage modulus E', tan delta), quasi-static mechanical tests (UTS, Eb), and water/saline absorption tests were conducted.
Main Results:
- Increasing HDMA content generally increased storage modulus (E') and decreased tan delta.
- Silica addition increased E' and significantly reduced tan delta, especially with <20% HDMA.
- Ultimate tensile strength (UTS) decreased with filler and HDMA, while elongation to break (Eb) increased in filled systems.
- Water uptake decreased with higher HDMA and E', with silanated silica further reducing uptake.
- Saline uptake was significantly reduced, suggesting an osmotically controlled process.
Conclusions:
- Silane-treated fumed silica enhances the dynamic mechanical properties and reduces water absorption in experimental denture soft lining materials.
- The addition of silanated silica acts as a cross-linking agent, improving dimensional stability and potentially hygiene.
- Optimizing HDMA content and silica filler levels can tailor material properties for specific denture applications.