Fluorescence and structural degradation in composite resins as a function of temperature

Detecting composite resin upon postmortem examination can be difficult. Ultraviolet illumination has been suggested to ease location of this material; however, this may not be advisable in incineration situations. Understanding of the chemical and physical properties of resin as a function of temperature is an important parameter in identification of this material in incineration circumstances. Twenty-seven discs of resin, Quixx (Dentsply), Filtek Supreme (3 M), and Tetric Ceram (Ivoclar) were prepared and exposed to increasing heating conditions of 200 degrees C-900 degrees C in 100 degrees C increments for 30 min. Analysis was performed with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible light spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and UV illumination. Characterization of the material occurred at each temperature range. The organic components and the fluorescence properties were lost at temperatures above 300 degrees C. The inorganic component remained through 900 degrees C. This information can aid in detection of resin in high temperature circumstances.