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Updated: May 14, 2026
06:34
Application of a Coupling Agent to Improve the Dielectric Properties of Polymer-Based Nanocomposites
Published on: September 19, 2020
Mechanical properties of polymer-infiltrated-ceramic-network materials
Andrea Coldea1, Michael V Swain, Norbert Thiel
1Department of Oral Sciences, School of Dentistry, Dunedin 9001, New Zealand. a.coldea@vita-zahnfabrik.com
Summary
Novel polymer-infiltrated-ceramic-network (PICN) materials show a strong correlation between ceramic density and mechanical properties like hardness and elastic modulus. These PICNs offer promising potential for dental restorations.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Dental Materials
Background:
- Polymer-infiltrated-ceramic-network (PICN) materials are being developed as advanced dental restorative solutions.
- Understanding the relationship between material composition and mechanical properties is crucial for optimizing performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlations between ceramic network densities and key mechanical properties (flexural strength, strain at failure, elastic modulus, hardness) of novel PICN materials.
- To compare the properties of PICNs with existing dental restorative materials and natural tooth structures.
Main Methods:
- Four ceramic network densities (59%–72% theoretical density) of PICNs were prepared and infiltrated with resin.
- Vickers indentation was used for hardness testing (HV 5).
- Three-point bending tests measured flexural strength and elastic modulus.
- Fracture response was analyzed after Vickers indentation, with optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) used for observation.
Main Results:
- Flexural strength ranged from 131–160 MPa, hardness from 1.05–2.10 GPa, and elastic modulus from 16.4–28.1 GPa, varying with ceramic density.
- SEM revealed that the polymer network in PICNs significantly deflects cracks more effectively than dense ceramic.
- Observed properties were compared with analytical models for two-phase composites.
Conclusions:
- A clear correlation exists between ceramic network density, elastic modulus, and hardness in PICN materials.
- PICNs demonstrate potential to more closely mimic the properties of natural teeth compared to current dental restorative materials.
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