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Effect of PMMA filler particles addition on the physical properties of resin composite
Yoshiko Kondo1, Tomohiro Takagaki, Makoto Okuda
1Cariology and Operative Dentistry, Department of Restorative Sciences, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 5-45 Yushima 1-chome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8549, Japan.
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of additional polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) fillers on the physical properties of experimental resin composites. PMMA particles (d=30 µm) were added to an experimental methacrylate-based resin composite in five concentrations of 0, 2.0, 4.8, 9.1, and 23.1 wt%. Properties such as contact angle, water sorption and compressive strength were measured and the fractured specimens were observed with a scanning electron microscope. The results showed that a small amount (2 wt%) of additional PMMA fillers inhibited the crack propagation and enhanced compressive strengths of the resin composites, without a significant change in water contact angle of surface or increased water sorption. However, in higher portions, the mechanical properties were not improved as a debonding at the interface between untreated fillers and the matrix, or failure within the organic filler could reduce the compressive yield strength of the composite.
Insights
Adding a small amount of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) fillers to resin composites enhances compressive strength without negatively impacting water properties. Higher filler concentrations, however, can reduce mechanical performance due to interface issues.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Resin composites are widely used dental restorative materials.
- Improving their mechanical properties and durability is an ongoing research focus.
- Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is a common polymer with potential as a filler.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of varying polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) filler concentrations on the physical and mechanical properties of experimental resin composites.
- To determine the optimal concentration of PMMA fillers for enhancing resin composite performance.
Main Methods:
- Experimental resin composites were formulated with PMMA particles (30 µm diameter) at five weight percentages (0, 2.0, 4.8, 9.1, 23.1 wt%).
- Key properties including contact angle, water sorption, and compressive strength were measured.
- Fractured specimens were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for failure analysis.
Main Results:
- A low concentration of PMMA (2 wt%) significantly improved compressive strength by inhibiting crack propagation.
- This optimal concentration did not adversely affect surface contact angle or increase water sorption.
- Higher PMMA concentrations led to reduced mechanical properties, attributed to filler-matrix debonding or internal filler failure.
Conclusions:
- Incorporating small amounts of PMMA fillers can enhance the mechanical integrity of resin composites.
- Careful control of PMMA filler concentration is crucial to avoid detrimental effects on composite properties.
- PMMA shows promise as an effective additive for improving dental resin composite performance.
