The effect of silanized alumina nano -fillers addition on some physical and mechanical properties of heat cured polymethyl methacrylate denture base material

Abstract

Background: Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is the most commonly used material in denture fabrication. The material is far from ideal in fulfilling the mechanical requirements. Midline fracture; poor thermal conductivity and water sorption, are common problem in this material. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of addition of surface treated Aluminum oxide nano fillers on some properties of heat cured (PMMA). Materials and methods: In addition to controlled group of heat cured PMMA the silanized (Al2O3) nanoparticles was added to PMMA powder by weight in three different percentages 1wt%, 2wt% and 3wt%, mixed by probe ultra-sonication machine. 200 specimens were constructed and divided into 5 groups according to the test (each group consist of 40 specimens) and each group was subdivided into 4 sub-groups. The tests conducted were thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, transverse strength, indentation hardness (shore D), surface roughness, water sorption and solubility. The results were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and Dunntt t-test. Results: A highly significant increase in transverse strength was observed with the addition of (Al2O3) nanoparticles to (PMMA) at the percentage of 1wt%, the value was 117.72 Mpa and significant increase at 2wt%; while a significant reduction occurred in transverse strength at the percentage of 3% the value was 90.110 Mpa. A significant increase in surface hardness and non significant differences in surface roughness were observed for all percentages. Conclusion: The addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles to acrylic resin improves the thermal properties and transverse strength of acrylic resin at the same time this addition decreases water sorption and solubility.