Rheological studies of the polymerization of elastomeric impression materials. III. Dynamic stress relaxation modulus

As part of a detailed study of the curing of a range of dental elastomeric impression materials, the 10-s stress relaxation modulus was measured as a function of the curing time. The influence of the catalyst/base ratio was also investigated and compared with the pregel viscosity previously studied. Using the theory of network formation and an understanding of the chemistry of these materials, the modulus data were interpreted in terms of the polymerization kinetics. The addition silicones exhibited the most abrupt transition between the gel and final set stage, which is close the ideal response. The clinical significant of the results is discussed.