Mechanical and microstructural characterisation of new calciumaluminate cement (EndoBinder)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to carry out a mechanical and microstructuralcharacterisation of calcium aluminate cement [EndoBinder (EB)]by compressive and diametral tensile strength tests, Vickers microhardnesstest and scanning electron microscopy analysis. Test specimens were made accordingto the type of cement used [EB, grey mineral trioxide aggregate (GMTA)and white mineral trioxide aggregate (WMTA)] and the settingtime tested (24 h, 7 days and 21 days). The mean values obtainedafter mechanical tests showed that EB presented higher compressive strength,with statistically significant difference to WMTA (7/21 days), andhigher diametral tensile strength, with statistically significant differenceto GMTA (7/21 days) and WMTA (21 days). EndoBinder presentedhigher microhardness values, differing statistically from GMTA (21 days)and WMTA (7/21 days). The SEM analysis showed a more homogeneousmicrostructural arrangement for EB, with particles of uniform size and shape.EndoBinder presented adequate mechanical properties, frequently superior tomineral trioxide aggregate, making it a feasible option for endodontic treatment.