Abstract
Herein we evaluate the effect of nanodiamond (ND) incorporation on the mechanical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanocomposite. Three quantities of ND (0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 wt.%) were tested against the control and zirconium oxide nanoparticles (ZrO). Flexural strength and elastic modulus were measured using a three-point bending test, surface hardness was evaluated using the Vickers hardness test, and surface roughness was evaluated using atomic force microscopy (AFM), while fungal adhesion and viability were studied using Candida albicans. Samples were also analyzed for biofilm thickness and biomass in a saliva-derived biofilm model. All groups of ND-PMMA nanocomposites had significantly greater mean flexural strengths and statistically improved elastic modulus, compared to the control and ZrO groups (P < 0.001). The Vickers hardness values significantly increased compared to the control group (P < 0.001) with 0.3% and 0.5% ND. ND addition also gave significant reduction in fungal adhesion and viability (P < 0.001) compared to the control group. Finally, salivary biofilm formation was markedly reduced compared to the ZrO group. Hence, the incorporation of 0.1–0.5 wt.% ND with auto- polymerized PMMA resin significantly improved the flexural strength, elastic modulus, and surface hardness, and provided considerable fungal resistance.
Highlights
Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) is one of the most common polymers used in the manufacture of a wide range of dental appliances, from interim prosthesis to removable orthodontic retainers, functional appliances, occlusal splints for temporomandibular joint therapy, and different types of surgical splints in craniofacial surgical management
Characterization of Nanoparticles In field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)) characterization, zirconium oxide nanoparticles (ZrO) particles were visualized as silanized particles with sizes in the range of 25–50 nm and marked tendencies towards aggregation. (Figure 2A,B)
The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) scanning for ND particles showed particles with sizes in the range of 4–6 nm and tendencies towards agglomeration
Summary
Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) is one of the most common polymers used in the manufacture of a wide range of dental appliances, from interim prosthesis to removable orthodontic retainers, functional appliances, occlusal splints for temporomandibular joint therapy, and different types of surgical splints in craniofacial surgical management. Bond formation and interaction during polymerization between the additive agent and the core polymer must be strong to enhance the mechanical properties against various forces This is influenced by the ability to achieve high rate and uniformity of dispersion of the modifier particle in the base polymer material [8]
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