Zirconia Research Articles

Geochemistry Characteristics and Coal-Forming Environments of Carboniferous–Permian Coal: An Example from the Zhaokai Mine, Ningwu Coalfield, Northern China

In order to study the geochemical characteristics of coal in the Ningwu Coalfield of Shanxi Province and the coal-forming environments reflected by it, a detailed geochemical study was carried out on the No. 5 coal of the Zhaokai Mine. The results show that the content of major-element oxides SiO2 and Al2O3 is high. The trace elements Ni, Nb, Mo, Cd, Sn, Hf, Ta, W, Th, and U are slightly enriched, while the elements Li and Zr are enriched, indicating an overall LREY enrichment type in the samples. Elemental parameters suggest that the sedimentary environment in the study area is continental sedimentary, and the whole environment is reductive. The macerals in the coal samples are mainly vitrinite, with an average vitrinite reflectance (Ro) of 0.744%. The distribution range of n-alkanes in the coal samples is from n-C14~n-C32, with the main peak carbons being n-C24 and n-C25, showing the post-single-peak type distribution pattern. The average odd–even predominance index (OEP) is 0.40, the average of the light and heavy hydrocarbons ratio (∑C21−/∑C22+) is 0.42, and the average of Pr/n-C17 and Ph/n-C18 are 1.08 and 0.23, respectively. The coal samples also contain various aromatic hydrocarbons, mainly from the naphthalene- and phenanthrene-series compounds. Biomarker parameters indicate that the parent material of the coal samples in the study area is mainly continental higher plants. The maturity is low, and the coal-forming environment is a reduction environment. This study of the No. 5 coal’s geochemical characteristics has laid a foundation for the efficient, green, and comprehensive exploitation of coal resources in this region, and has also provided an important basis for the sustainable development of coal resources.

The influence of thermal tempering on the fracture resistance, surface microstructure, elemental surface composition, and phase analysis of four heat-pressed lithia-based glass ceramic crowns

Abstract Background This in-vitro study aimed to evaluate the impact of thermal tempering and ceramic type on the fracture resistance, surface microstructure, elemental surface composition and phase analysis of four heat-pressed glass ceramics. Methods A total of 84 glass-ceramic crowns were pressed and randomly allocated into four equal groups (n = 21) according to the ceramic type: Group (E): IPS e.max Press, Group (L): GC initial LiSi Press, Group (C): Celtra Press and Group (A): VITA Ambria. The crowns of each group were equally allocated into three subgroups (n = 7) regarding the subsequent thermal tempering temperature. Subgroup (T0): No tempering. Subgroup (T1): Tempering at 9% below pressing temperature. Subgroup (T2): Tempering at 5% below pressing temperature. Samples were tested for fracture resistance using a universal testing machine. A scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, and Energy Dispersive x-ray analysis were utilized to disclose the microstructural features. Results When there is no tempering, IPS e.max press showed a significant elevated fracture resistance (P-value = 0.002). There was an insignificant difference between other ceramics. While with tempering (T2) as well as (T1), Lisi press (L) showed a significant elevated fracture resistance. There was an insignificant difference between other ceramics (P-value = 0.004). Conclusions Incorporation of zirconia oxide into the lithium disilicate glass matrix did not show improvement in the fracture resistance. Thermal tempering procedure had significant effect on fracture resistance. Thermal tempering technique had no influence the elemental surface composition and phase analysis yet T2 samples showed changes in crystal size and orientation.

Nanocomposites soft and hard denture liners containing ZrO2 nanoparticles: An in vitro evaluation of surface roughness and Candida albicans adhesion.

To investigate the impact of zirconium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-ZrO2) addition to hard and soft liners on the surface roughness and Candida albicans adhesion. Nano-ZrO2 was added to hard and soft chairside reline material in two concentrations (2%wt. and 4%wt.) while an unmodified group of each liner acted as a control, (n=10). Disc-shaped (10×1.3mm) specimens of hard denture reline (N=60) and soft denture reline (N=60) materials were prepared (30/test). A noncontact profilometer was used for surface roughness measurement. A colony-forming unit (CFU/mL) was used to evaluate Candida albicans adhesion. Data was analyzed using ANOVA and a post hoc Tukey's test (α=0.05). No significant change in surface roughness was observed with nano-ZrO2 addition; however, the control groups showed the highest value while 2% nano-ZrO2 showed the lowest value. In comparison to the control groups, nano-ZrO2 addition to the hard and soft liners significantly reduced Candida albicans adhesion (p<0.001), regardless of the concentration. Incorporating nano-ZrO2 into hard and soft liner had no effect on surface roughness while its addition reduced Candida albicans adhesion. Using chairside soft and hard liners containing nano-ZrO2 is recommended to reduce the incidence of denture stomatitis (DS) among denture wearers.

Comparative investigation of structural properties and biological applications of chemical and biogenic synthesis of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles using Passiflora edulis.

Over the last decade, the environmental and wellness cost of antibiotic drug resistance to the societies have been astounding and require urgent attention Metal oxide nanomaterials have been achieved a pull-on deal with its entire applications in biological and photocatalytic applications. The present study conducts a comparative investigation on chemical and biogenic synthesis of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles aimed at enhancing their efficacy in their applications. The plant extract of Passiflora edulis act as a reducing and capping properties offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. ZrO2 nanoparticles have drawn a lot of scrutiny owing to their potential uses in numerous fields, including medicine and environmental remediation. Thereby produced ZrO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by employing sustainable techniques, and their successful production and their uses were confirmed by characterization by XRD, FTIR, UV-visible spectroscopy, SEM, EDAX, PL, TEM, XPS, TGA and Raman spectroscopy. The zirconia nanoparticles synthesized using chemical and green methods exhibited ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) absorption maxima at 221 and 224nm, respectively, demonstrating their synthesis. X-ray diffraction research revealed that the nanoparticles possess a tetragonal shape, with mean particle sizes of 11nm and 7nm, respectively. The synthesized ZrO2 nanoparticles (ZrO2 and Ext-ZrO2) exhibited inhibitory effects against Gram-positive strains (Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative germs (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aureus), with zones of inhibition measuring (12, 8mm), (8, 11mm), (12, 15mm), and (7, 12mm) correspondingly. The antitumor activity of ZrO2 and Ext-ZrO2 was assessed using human colon cancer cells (HT29). The MTT assay was employed to assess the cytotoxicity of ZrO2 nanospheres on the HT-29 cell line at various concentrations (7.5, 15.6, 31.2, 62.5, 125, 250, and 500μg/ml). The HT29 cell line exhibits a reduction in cell viability from 96% to 34% when the concentration of ZrO2 nanoparticles escalates. The photocatalytic activity of ZrO2 and Ext-ZrO2 exhibited absorbance deterioration at around 445nm, resulting in the discoloration of Rh B dye under UV light irradiation after 100min, achieving maximal degradation rates of 96% and 99%, respectively. Consequently, the synthesized ZrO2 and Ext-ZrO2 may be utilized in antibiotic formulation, pharmaceutical sectors, and photocatalysts.

Improved antimicrobial efficacy of copper-engineered zirconium oxide nanoparticles against some foodborne bacterial strains, synthesised via a facile hydrothermal method

Improved antimicrobial efficacy of copper-engineered zirconium oxide nanoparticles against some foodborne bacterial strains, synthesised via a facile hydrothermal method

Detection of Enhanced Germanium in a New Cool Extreme Helium Star A980: Insights and Implications

Abstract A fine abundance analysis of a recently discovered hydrogen-deficient carbon (HdC) star, A980, is presented. Based on the observed high-resolution optical spectrum, we ascertain that A980 is a cool extreme helium (EHe) star and not an HdC star. Singly ionized germanium Ge ii lines are identified in A980’s optical spectrum. These are the first-ever detections of germanium lines in an EHe star's observed spectrum and provide the first measurements of germanium abundance in an EHe star. The overabundance of germanium in A980’s atmosphere provides us with evidence for the synthesis of germanium in EHe stars. Among the known cool EHe stars, A980 exhibits a maximum enhancement of the s-process elements based on a significant number of transitions. The measured elemental abundances reveal signs of H-burning, He-burning, and specifically the nucleosyntheses of the key elements Ge, Sr, Y, Zr, and Ba. The nucleosyntheses of these key elements are discussed in light of asymptotic giant branch evolution and the expectation from the accretion of an He white dwarf by a C–O white dwarf or by a neutron star.

Similar patient-reported satisfaction and professional appraisal of implant-supported fixed dental prosthesis fabricated by different workflows.

A triple-armed, double-blind randomized controlled trial with cross-over design investigated patient-reported satisfaction and objective dental evaluation of a 3-unit, monolithic zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), implant-supported fixed dental prosthesis (iFDP) fabricated with 2 completely digital workflows and 1 mixed analog-digital workflow. Participants enrolled required rehabilitation of 2 dental implants in posterior region of either of the arches with a 3-unit, ZrO2 iFDP. A total of 20 participants received the 3 types of ZrO2, iFDP fabricated by 3 different methods. Thus, a total of 60 iFDPs were fabricated in the study. 20 iFDP were fabricated by complete digital workflow by using 3Shape Trios 3 Intraoral scanner (IOS) and 3 Shape designing software (Test-1). In second group (Test-2) 20 iFDPs were fabricated by using Dental Wings Virtuo Vivo IOS and Dental Wings original software (DWOS) for CAD designing. 20 iFDPs (control) were fabricated by mixed analogue-digital workflow by using Polyether impression and Exocad Lab software. The primary clinical outcome was blinded, subjective evaluation on visual analogue scale (VAS) by the participant, and an objective evaluation on VAS by a dentist at the time of prosthetic try-in of each of the 3 types of prosthesis. Secondary outcome was patients' perception about the impression procedures in the 3 different workflows on VAS. The study was conducted at 2 instances during the prosthetic rehabilitation. The primary outcomes were assessed at the time of prosthetic try-in. The secondary outcome was observed after the impression session. Clinical parameters were measured on VAS from 0 to 100 score. For the primary outcome, VAS score was recorded for each iFDP as observed for patient perception (satisfaction) and dentist evaluation (objective). The perception about impression was also recorded on VAS. Descriptive analysis of all scores was done by mean and standard deviation. ANOVA test was used for comparisons among the 3 different types of iFDP. Tukey's HSD was used for pairwise comparisons within ANOVA. Linear regression analyses was done to compare overall satisfaction of the patients and the dentist within each group. The level of significance was set at α = 0.05. After the start of recruitment in January 2020, there were no losses and exclusions. VAS for patient satisfaction was higher than VAS for dentist evaluation. Patient satisfaction among Test-1, Test-2, and Control showed no significant difference (P = 0.876). Dentist satisfaction among workflows were also not significantly different (P = 0.22). The relationship between VAS scores of patients and dentists was weak for Test-1 (R-value = -0.424, P = 0.062), Test-2 (R-value = 0.116, P = 0.068), and Control (R-value = -0.183, P = 0.441). Significant differences for patients' perceptions related to the treatment time for impression procedure (P = 0.005), convenience of impression procedure (P < 0.001), bad oral taste with the impression procedure (P < 0.001), and nausea with the impression procedure (P < 0.001) were observed. Subjective patient satisfaction was similar when comparing iFDPs fabricated with 3 different workflows. Objective dentist evaluation was also similar when comparing the 3 types of iFDPs. However, patient satisfaction of the workflow was higher than dentist evaluation, although there was no correlation between the two. Lower VAS in dentist's evaluation has been attributed to strict standardized clinical criteria and critical expert view. The study also reveals that patients have a favorable perception and preference in favor of digital impressions as compared to use of elastomeric impression materials.

Investigation of the Critical Buckling Temperatures and Free Vibration Response of Porous Functionally Graded Magneto-Electro-Elastic Sandwich Higher-Order Nanoplates with Temperature-Dependent Material Properties

PurposeThis article aims to determine the critical buckling temperature and thermomechanical free vibration response of a porous functionally graded material (FGM) nanoplate sandwiched between porous magneto-electro-elastic (MEE) plate layers, taking into account temperature-dependent material properties.MethodsThe upper surface of the FGM host structure is considered zirconia (ZrO ), and the lower surface is stainless steel (SUS304). In addition, the MEE face layers are considered to be homogenous volumetric mixtures of cobalt-ferrite (CoFe O ) and barium-titanate (BaTiO ). It is assumed that the host structure’s effective mechanical and thermal material properties are graded in the thickness direction according to the power law distribution. The effective mechanical, electrical, thermal, and magnetic properties of the face plates are obtained by the rule of mixture. This study was conducted using sinusoidal higher-order shear deformation theory (SHSDT) and nonlocal strain gradient elasticity theory (NSGT). Hamilton's theory is utilized to derive the equations of motion of sandwich nanoplates. Closed-form solutions are obtained by the use of Navier's method.ResultsParametric simulations are carried out to examine the effects of the power law index, nonlocal parameters, electric, magnetic, and thermal loads, porosity volume fraction, porosity distribution and volume ratio of CoFe O and BaTiO on the free vibration and buckling behavior of the nanoplate. The results of the simulations are compared with published works to verify the accuracy of the proposed method.ConclusionAccording to the analysis results, it is determined that the power law index, porosity ratio, porosity distribution function, temperature dependent properties, magneto-electro-thermo-mechanical loads and nonlocal factors significantly affect the thermomechanical behavior of the nanoplate.

Activation energies of oxidation in air for SPS-sintered zirconium and its alloys

The research concerns the oxidation process of SPS-sintered zirconium-based materials. The sintered materials are characterized by residual porosity, which can affect the intensification of the oxidation process, compared to melted materials. On the basis of TGA tests carried out at temperatures of 500, 600, 700, and 800 °C, activation energies in air of sintered Zr, Zr–2.5Cu, Zr–2.5Nb, and Zr–2.5Mn, respectively, were calculated. Based on the studies of the microstructure and phase composition of oxidized materials, degradation mechanisms were analyzed for materials after annealing at 700 °C. In sintered Zr, Zr–2.5Cu, and Zr–2.5Nb oxidized at 700 °C, Si3N4 was detected. Si3N4 is formed at the zirconium oxide–zirconium boundary, in oxygen-deficient conditions. Zr–2.5Cu demonstrated the lowest tendency to oxidize despite the low values of activation energy for the oxidation process in air of 61 kJ/mol. This material showed the highest resistance to oxidation in air.

Innovative Production of 3D-Printed Ceramic Monolithic Catalysts for Oxidation of VOCs by Using Fused Filament Fabrication

In this work, ceramic monolithic catalyst carriers based on zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) were produced using fused filament fabrication (FFF). The active catalyst components were deposited on the resulting carriers using the wet impregnation method. The activity of the prepared monolithic catalysts was evaluated by catalytic oxidation of a mixture of aromatic volatile organic compounds: benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and o-xylene (BTEX). The efficiency of the prepared monolithic catalysts was investigated as a function of the geometry of the monolithic carrier (ZDP, Z, and M) and the chemical composition of the catalytically active component (MnFeOx, MnCuOx, and MnNiOx) during the catalytic oxidation of BTEX compounds. The mechanical stability of the catalyst layer and the dimensional stability of the 3D-printed monolithic catalyst carriers were investigated prior to the kinetic measurements. In addition, thorough characterization of the commercial ZrO2-based filament was carried out. The results of the efficiency of the prepared monolithic catalysts for the catalytic oxidation of BTEX showed that the 3D-printed model M, which contained MnFeOx as the catalytically active component, was the most successful catalyst for the oxidation of BTEX compounds. The mentioned catalyst enables the catalytic oxidation of all components of the BTEX mixture (&gt;99% efficiency) at a temperature of 177 °C.

Sustainable Synthesis of Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO2) Nanoparticles Utilizing Asphodelus fistulosus Extract for Congo Red Degradation

This research presents a green approach to synthesizing zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles using an Asphodelus fistulosus plant extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesized ZrO2 nanoparticles were characterized using various advanced techniques. The XRD pattern provides different forms of ZrO2, like tetragonal and cubic forms, and the results confirmed the successful formation of crystalline ZrO2 nanoparticles with a definite morphology. The XPS data exhibit that the bioactive chemicals present in the extract, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and reducing sugars, perform the functions of reducing and capping agents. Additionally, CR dye molecules may create hydrogen bonds with these surface moieties, which are approved by FTIR. These interactions may assist in aligning dye molecules with catalytically active regions on ZrO2 surfaces and may interact with photogenerated species. The catalytic activity of the synthesized ZrO2 nanoparticles was evaluated for the degradation of Congo red dye under ultraviolet irradiation. The nanoparticles exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity, degrading a significant amount of the dye within a short period. Various parameters were investigated to optimize the photodegradation process, including irradiation time, catalyst dosage, pH, and initial dye concentration. The optimal conditions were determined to be a pH of 7, a catalyst loading of 20 mg/L, and an irradiation time of 75 min, resulting in a remarkable ≈92% degradation efficiency. This green synthesis method offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical methods for producing ZrO2 nanoparticles, which have potential applications in environmental remediation.

Nanoscale visualization of crack tips inside molten corium-concrete interaction debris using 3D-FIB-SEM with multiphase positional misalignment correction.

Characterizing molten corium-concrete interaction (MCCI) fuel debris in Fukushima reactors is essential to develop efficient methods for its removal. To enhance the accuracy of microscopic observation and focused ion beam (FIB) microsampling of MCCI fuel debris, we developed a three-dimentional FIB scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique with a multiphase positional misalignment (MPPM) correction method. This system automatically aligns voxel positions, corrects contrast, and removes artifacts from a series of over 500 SEM images. The MPPM correction method, which focuses on time-modulated contrast, considerably reduces charge-up artifacts in glass phases, enabling 3D morphological observation and analytical transmission electron microscopy of crack tips in two types of MCCI debris at the 3D/nanoscale for the first time. In the Fe-ZrSiO4-based debris, metallic balls composed of Fe, Cr2O3, and ZrO2 with dimples on the surface of about 2-58 µm in diameter were observed at the crack tips. In the (Zr, U)SiO4 based debris, a core-shell structure composed of a (U, Zr)O2 core with a diameter of about 1-5 μm and a (Zr, U)SiO4 shell with a diameter of about 2-9 μm in complex molten corium-concrete interaction fuel debris at the crack tips.

Physicochemical properties and biological interaction of calcium silicate-based sealers - in vivo model.

To investigate volumetric changes, in vivo biocompatibility, and systemic migration from eight commercial endodontic sealer materials in paste/paste, powder/liquid, and pre-mixed forms. The sealers AH Plus Bioceramic, AH Plus Jet, BioRoot RCS, MTApex, Bio-C Sealer, Bio-C Sealer Ion+, EndoSequence BC Sealer and NeoSEALER Flo were studied. After characterisation by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffractometry (XRD), tubes were implanted in Wistar rats' alveolar bone and subcutaneous tissues. Micro-CT evaluated volumetric changes pre/post 30 days of implantation. Histological and immunohistochemistry analyses assessed biocompatibility. Kidney samples underwent spectrometry (ICP-MS) for tantalum, tungsten and zirconium. Statistical analysis determined normality and significance (udp < 0.05). Characterisation revealed calcium, silicon, and radiopacifiers in the materials. Volumetric changes showed greater alteration in subcutaneous tissues than alveolar bone; BioRoot RCS and MTApex (powder/liquid) were most stable. Histological analysis indicated intense inflammation for AH Plus Jet, moderate for others; IL-10 was marked positively for all materials. AH Plus Jet had an 18-fold higher tungsten and a 37-fold higher zirconium mass fraction in kidneys versus controls, while tantalum showed lower accumulation patterns. Root canal filling materials' responses varied by implantation site and form, demonstrating acceptable biocompatibility. Tantalum and zirconium oxide radiopacifiers appear systemically safe; tungsten-based radiopacifiers are unsuitable due to metal accumulation risks. This study highlights the need for further in vivo studies on endodontic sealers' chemical, biological, and physical behaviors and their systemic migration.

Retrospective Long-Term Survival Rate and Clinical Performance of Zirconium Oxide Restorations over the Past 5 Years: A Comparative Study Between Single Crowns and Fixed Dental Prostheses

Background and Objectives: This five-year retrospective study evaluated the survival and clinical performance of 1143 zirconium oxide restorations, including both monolithic (144) and layered (999) restorations. Materials and Methods: The analysis included clinical records and follow-up data of patients treated with zirconium oxide restorations. Failures in layered restorations were examined, particularly focusing on chipping caused by unsupported feldspathic ceramic exceeding 1.5 mm. Monolithic restorations were used as a benchmark for durability. Results: The results demonstrated a high overall survival rate of 96.3%, with monolithic restorations achieving a perfect survival rate of 100%, while layered restorations had a survival rate of 95.8%. Failures in the layered restorations were primarily associated with chipping, especially when the unsupported feldspathic ceramic exceeded 1.5 mm. Conclusions: This finding highlights the importance of maintaining adequate support for the ceramic layer to prevent such complications. Monolithic restorations, in contrast, showed superior durability, with no failures reported, making them a more reliable option for long-term success. These findings emphasize the need for the careful selection of zirconium oxide restoration types based on the clinical context, particularly in cases where durability is critical.

Zirconium dioxide reinforced aluminum alloy: Microstructure and mechanical characteristics

Zirconium dioxide reinforced aluminum alloy: Microstructure and mechanical characteristics

Effect of Zirconium Silicate Reinforcement on Aluminum 7075; Mechanical Properties, Thermomechanical Analysis and Vibrational Behavior

Aluminum 7075 alloys are widely utilized in aerospace, transportation, and marine industries due to their high strength and low density. However, further research is needed to understand their mechanical, thermomechanical, and vibrational behaviors when reinforced. This study focuses on the development of Al 7075 composites reinforced with zirconium silicate (ZrSiO4), processed via sand stir casting. The mechanical properties, including tensile, compression, and impact strength, as well as thermomechanical and vibrational behaviors, were thoroughly investigated. A planetary ball mill was used to mix ZrSiO4 with a wettability agent, and the results indicated that the addition of ZrSiO4 with the wettability agent significantly enhanced the mechanical properties. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was employed to identify the compounds formed after adding the reinforcement and wettability agent. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images and Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis revealed a uniform distribution of the particles within the matrix. The tensile, compression, and impact strengths increased by 20%, 21%, and 19%, respectively, with the addition of 8 wt% ZrSiO4; however, strain decreased. Additionally, heat treatment further enhanced the mechanical properties of the composites. The thermomechanical properties showed improvement even at elevated temperatures, and the damping factor was enhanced with the addition of ZrSiO4. The elemental composition of the reinforced composites was analyzed using EDX, confirming the presence of the reinforcement. This research highlights the potential of Al 7075-ZrSiO4 composites for improved performance in various applications.

Hydrothermal Synthesis and Characterization of C@ZrSiO4 Black Pigment Based on Mesoporous Structure Collapse of Zirconium Silicate

In this paper, Zirconium silicate inclusion carbon black (C@ZrSiO4) pigment was prepared by mesoporous structure collapse of ZrSiO4. The optimal synthesis process of C@ZrSiO4 pigment was studied. The results show that mesoporous ZrSiO4 with specific surface area of 322.4805 m2/g can be obtained at 180 ℃ hydrothermal temperature. APTES can facilitate the combination of carbon black (CB) and ZrSiO4, and the optimal molar ratio of APTES/Zr is 0.5364. By utilizing the special structure of layered mesopores ZrSiO4, we have successfully synthetized highly chromogenic C@ZrSiO4 pigment with L* value of 27.65.

Measurement of volumetric wear of printed polymer resin and milled polymer infused ceramic network definitive restorative materials.

Currently there is no regulatory requirement or international standard for the wear resistance of dental materials and therefore no need to test prior to market launch. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate and compare the total volumetric wear characteristics of milled polymer infiltrated ceramic network (MPICN) and printed polymer resin (PPR) as substrates opposing five antagonists, human enamel (EN), lithium disilicate (LD), zirconia (ZR), MPICN, and PPR, and to evaluate and compare the volumetric wear of these same materials as antagonists. Ten of each antagonist for a total of 50 EN, LD (IPS e.max CAD), ZR (IPS e.max ZirCAD MT), MPICN (Crystal Ultra), and PPR (Crowntec for NextDent) were shaped into spherical heads and were tested against 2 disk-shaped substrates, MPICN (Crystal Ultra) and PPR (Crowntec for NextDent). Specimens were tested in a wear machine with a third-body food substitute and loaded with a force of 20 to 70N at 1Hz for 100 000 cycles. The total wear volume was digitally measured by comparing scans before and after cycling. The area of the wear facet of the antagonists was measured in a similar way and used to estimate the total volume loss of the antagonists. Data were analyzed using 2-way and 1-way ANOVA followed by the Tukey multiple comparisons post hoc test (α=.05). Antagonist type was found to significantly affect the total volume wear of the substrate (P=.022). EN was found to cause significantly more wear in opposing substrates than ZR and PPR. Substrate material did not significantly affect the wear rate of the substrates (P=.345) nor did the interaction between substrate and antagonist type (P=.150). Antagonist wear was significantly affected by antagonist type (P<.001), with ZR showing no visible signs of wear and MPICN showing the most wear overall; substrate type (P=.002), with antagonists opposing MPICN showing more wear than PPR; and their interaction (P=.031). Differences in the wear resistance of milled polymer infiltrated ceramic network and printed polymer resin definitive restorative materials were found but varied depending on the opposing material. No material showed superior wear resistance across all tests. Overall, printed polymer resins created less wear in opposing antagonists than milled polymer infiltrated ceramic network materials.

Immediate Patient Satisfaction with Dental Esthetics After Endodontic and Prosthodontic Treatment of Dental Dyschromia.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate patients' satisfaction with the esthetic outcomes of combined endodontic and prosthetic treatments for devitalized or dyschromic teeth, a condition influenced by various intrinsic and extrinsic factors that present a growing concern in modern dentistry. Methods: A total of 104 patients, including 43 men and 61 women, underwent treatment using lithium disilicate restorations for esthetic zones and zirconium oxide restorations for regions with higher occlusal demands. Patient satisfaction was evaluated through a post-treatment questionnaire, classifying responses as either "satisfied" or "dissatisfied". Dissatisfied participants were further asked to specify their concerns. Results: The study revealed a high satisfaction rate of 93%. Dissatisfaction was slightly more prevalent among women than men, but this difference was statistically insignificant. The primary reasons for dissatisfaction included darker restoration color, chipping, and gingival recessions. Conclusions: Combined endodontic and prosthetic treatments, utilizing lithium disilicate and zirconium oxide restorations, achieved high levels of patient satisfaction. Nevertheless, addressing specific issues, such as color matching and gingival health, could enhance outcomes further.

An experimental analysis of air flow-induced piezoelectric energy harvesting using flexible poly (vinylidene fluoride) nanocomposite films

Globally, it has been witnessed that the demand for energy has been increasing daily due to the rapid expansion of industries. As an initiative toward alternative energy, Piezoelectric technology has been implemented for energy harvesting applications to overcome this issue. So, various researchers are developing a flexible, lightweight piezoelectric-based energy harvesting device that can effectively capture mechanical vibrations and convert them into electrical energy. In this concern, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), a polymer-based piezoelectric material, has attained great response with its exceptional piezo, pyro, and ferroelectric properties. Therefore, the current research article focuses on developing PVDF-based nanocomposite films for energy-harvesting applications under low-speed wind turbine. PVDF films were incorporated with various compositions of zinc oxide (ZnO), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), and titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanofillers and synthesized using the solution casting technique to achieve excellent piezoelectric performance. Finally, the fabricated PVDF film samples were tested under a low-speed wind tunnel and resulted that the PVDF film sample possessing 0.4 wt.% of ZnO/ZrO2/TiO2 showed a maximum electrical potential of 1210 mV at 20 m/s velocity, which is 5 times larger than pristine PVDF films which shows that the fabricated PVDF film samples are promising portable electronic nanogenerator (PENG) devices.