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Bio-inspired nacre-like glass flake/polymer composites with antibacterial function and translucent appearance
Huijun Sun1, Aukrit Luangpattarawong2, Parinaz Tabrizian2
1Guangxi Key Laboratory of Oral and Maxillofacial Rehabilitation and Reconstruction & College and Hospital of Stomatology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, China; Bristol Dental School, University of Bristol, UK.
Journal of Dentistry
|January 4, 2026
Summary
A novel bio-inspired nacre-like composite was developed for dental applications, offering enhanced mechanical strength, antibacterial properties, and aesthetic translucency. This material mimics natural nacre for improved dental restorations.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Dental Materials
Background:
- Dental composites require improved mechanical properties, antibacterial function, and aesthetics.
- Bio-inspired materials offer promising solutions for advanced dental applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a bio-inspired nacre-like glass flake/polymer composite.
- To enhance mechanical properties, antibacterial function, and aesthetic appearance for dental use.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of nacre-like composites using self-assembly and in-situ polymerization.
- Optimization of dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM) content.
- Evaluation of mechanical properties (flexural strength, elastic modulus, fracture toughness), antibacterial activity, and translucency.
Main Results:
- Composites exhibited nacre-like layered microstructures.
- 1.5 wt% DMAHDM composite showed flexural strength comparable to benchmark aesthetic dental composites (126.97 MPa).
- Achieved bio-inspired mechanical properties (elastic modulus similar to dentine), excellent damage tolerance, significant antibacterial function against Streptococcus mutans, and translucency similar to human enamel.
Conclusions:
- A bio-inspired nacre-like glass flake/polymer composite was successfully developed.
- The composite demonstrates excellent mechanical properties, crack resistance, antibacterial activity, and aesthetic appeal.
- This material holds significant potential for aesthetic dental applications.
