Semi-interpenetrating network composites reinforced with Kevlar fibers for dental post fabrication

This study evaluates the reinforcement of semi-interpenetrating network composites of 2,2-bis[4-(2-hydroxy-3-methacryloyloxypropyl)phenyl] propane (Bis-GMA)/ triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA)/polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and 25% titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanofiller with surface treated Kevlar fibers for potential application as dental posts. The post material was subjected to thermo-cycling and flexural strength determined, characterised by dynamic mechanical analysis, water sorption, radiopacity and cytotoxicity tests. The results were compared with everStick^®POST. Kevlar pre-treatment with acetic acid and silane coupling agent demonstrated a clear effect on the flexural strength of the composites with a significant increase compared to composites with fibers without surface treatment. The inclusion of TiO₂ into the final formulation provided the desired radiopacity and improved both aesthetics and flexural strength, which exhibits a higher resistance on thermocycling. The ratios of fatigue limit to static flexural strength were about 0.73 for Kevlar and 0.58 for everStick^®POST; MTT assay confirmed the absence of any toxic eluents, indicating its feasibility as new intracanal post material.