Utilization of Recycled Thermoplastic Nylon Combined with Virgin Nylon and the Effect on its Mechanical Properties as a Denture Base Material

Abstract

The injection molding process of thermoplastic nylon produces nylon residues in the form of sprue. Nylon residues are non-biodegradable which causes serious ecological problems, hence recycling becomes a necessity. However, recycled nylon is subjected to thermal, oxidative, and mechanical degradation during process which may decrease the mechanical properties of recycled nylon. In order to overcome the decreased mechanical properties of recycled nylon, modification by combining recycled nylon with virgin nylon is considered. Aim: This study aimed to determine the effect of adding virgin nylon into recycled nylon on the modulus of elasticity and compressive yield strength. Settings and Design: Experimental laboratory research. Methods and Materials: A total of 45 samples were used. Samples were divided into 3 groups which include 100% virgin nylon as control (A), 100% recycled nylon (B) and combination of 60% virgin nylon with 40% recycled nylon (C). The samples were tested using Universal Testing Machine (Tensilon RTF, Japan) with three point bending test and compression test with the speed of 5mm/min with ultimate load. Statistical analysis used: The obtained results were analyzed using Univarian test, One-way ANOVA test and Turkey’s Honestly Significant Different test. Result: There was statistical significance in adding virgin nylon into recycled nylon on its mechanical properties, namely modulus of elasticity and compressive yield strength (p<0.05). Conclusion: The combination of 60% virgin nylon with 40% recycled nylon has better elastic modulus and compressive yield strength values compared to 100% recycled nylon.