Microwave energy polymerization of poly(methyl methacrylate) denture base resin

Several physical property tests were conducted to compare microwave energy and conventional hot water bath polymerization techniques. The two methods of polymerization produced similar dimensional accuracy in complete denture bases. No differences were found in transverse strength, Knoop hardness, density, and residual monomer content of resin test strips. Comparable strength was found between microwave-polymerized and autopolymerized repairs of resin test strips. No porosity was observed in complete or removable partial denture bases polymerized by either technique. The Knoop hardness of microwave-polymerized removable partial denture bases was found to be slightly lower near the metal framework.