Characterization of chemical elements of calcium silicate-based cements

Abstract

The aim of this study was to characterize the chemical elements and surface of the cements: Biodentine®, Bio-C Sealer®, Endosequence® BC Sealer, MTA Angelus® and Portland Cement (PC). Material and methods: The cements were manipulated according to manufacturer’s recommendations, inserted in polyethylene tubes and kept in a 95% humidity incubator for 72 hours. The analysis of the chemical elements was performed by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) coupled to a low vacuum Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The surface analysis was performed according to the distribution pattern, shape and particle size in images obtained using Field Emission Gun SEM (SEM-FEG). Data were analyzed descriptively for EDS chemical composition spectra and qualitatively for SEM-FEG images. Results: EDS analysis showed that all evaluated cements contained calcium and silicon rich particles. MTA Angelus® presented bismuth-rich particles, while Biodentine®, Bio-C Sealer® and Endosequence® presented zirconium-rich particles, the latter having tantalum in its composition. All materials showed a uniform distribution pattern of particles on the surface. Biodentine® and Endosequence® showed similarly shaped particles. Conclusion: The cements present particles with uniform distribution pattern and similar chemical composition, differentiating the presence of bismuth or zirconium.