Physical properties of irreversible hydrocolloid dental impression materials obtained from brown algae species Padina sp.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to prepare an irreversible hydrocolloid dental impression material extracted from brown algae (Padina sp.). The physical properties, such as purity, viscosity, and setting time of the material, were evaluated and compared with those of standard alginate. This was a quasi-experimental study with a one-shot case study design using brown algae Padina sp. Sodium alginate was extracted from the brown algae Padina sp. and irreversible hydrocolloid dental impression material was prepared by mixing it with four different formulations of calcium sulfate, potassium sulfate, diatomaceous earth, silica gel, poly ethylene glycol, and trisodium phosphate. Tests for measuring the absorption (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy [FTIR]), setting time, and viscosity were performed to compare the physical properties between the Padina sp. and standard sodium alginates and impression materials. The FTIR spectrum of the Padina sp. alginate was similar to that of the standard dental impression materials, except for the absorption rate. The fastest setting time was 3.15 min, and the longest was 6.51 min. The mean viscosity of the Padina sp. dental impression materials ranged from 40 to 160 cP and that of the standard impression materials was 920–2400 cP. The FTIR spectra and setting times of the Padina sp. alginates were similar to those of the standard dental impression materials. Despite the low viscosity and flowability, the Padina sp. impression materials may be used for taking dental impressions.