Short Fiber-reinforced Composites Research Articles

Investigation of the hybridization effect on mechanical properties of natural fiber reinforced biosourced composites

Hybridizing the natural fibers with stronger synthetic fibers could significantly improve the properties of the natural fiber-reinforced composites. The improved mechanical capabilities of fiber reinforced polymers result from the fiber’s capacity for withstanding a more substantial portion of the mechanical load compared to the matrix it replaces. In order to guarantee the efficient transfer of the mechanical load from the matrix to the reinforcement, it is necessary to incorporate a fibrous filler. Transference takes place when the length of the fiber is longer than a specific critical length. Fibers which are shorter than the critical length will pull out from the matrix when tested to a tensile load. In some cases, complete transfer of the load is not performed. The goal of this study is to learn more about flax (FF), glass (GF), and mixtures of flax and glass (FF + GF) short fiber-reinforced PLA-PBS composites. This is performed to find out how the flax/glass combination affects the mechanical properties of PLA-PBS-reinforced short fiber composites. In order to extend their use for industrial applications, these composites were manufactured via extrusion and, afterward, injection molding. Fiber aspect ratios were followed after compounding and injection processing. The analysis of fiber lengths reveals a noteworthy observation: the proportion of fibers exceeding their critical length of 531 µm and 772 µm for FF and GF, respectively, is more significant when flax fibers (FF) and glass fibers (GF) are combined compared to when they reinforce the composite individually. Specifically, the composite containing both FF and GF exhibits a higher percentage of fibers surpassing their critical length, compared to their individual reinforcement in the composite. The results reveal that 27% of individually extracted single FF exceed their critical length, whereas a higher proportion, at 34%, is observed when FF is part of the composite mixture. In contrast, the critical length is surpassed by only 4% of individually extracted single GF, whereas the combined presence of GF in the composite results in a notably higher percentage, at 19%. The tensile properties of these composites were investigated considering the effect of the hybridization by flax/glass short fibers. It was noted that the tensile properties of the hybrid composites increase comparing to the flax composites from 42.4 MPa to 53 MPa for the tensile strength and from 4.9 GPa to 5.4 GPa for the tensile modulus. In contrast, the elongation at break of the hybrid composites decreases from 1.7% to 1.5% with the incorporation of glass fibers. The experimental results were compared with the predictions of the mixture law and the Cox-Krenchel model. The findings indicate that mixing synthetic fibers with natural fibers is an excellent approach to enhancing mechanical properties.

Effect of Long Glass Fiber Orientations or a Short-Fiber-Reinforced Composite on the Fracture Resistance of Endodontically Treated Premolars.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of direct restorations using unidirectional glass fiber orientations and a short-fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated premolars with mesio-occluso-distal cavities. Ninety double-rooted premolars were selected. Fifteen teeth were left intact/as a control group. The endodontic treatment and cavity preparations of seventy-five teeth were performed and divided into five experimental groups: Resin composite (RC), modified transfixed technique + RC, circumferential technique + RC, cavity floor technique + RC, and SFRC + RC. All teeth were fractured under oblique static loading at a 30° angle using a universal testing machine. The fracture patterns were observed and classified. Data were analyzed with one-way analysis of variance, Pearson chi-square, and Tukey HSD post hoc tests (p = 0.05). The highest fracture strength values were obtained in intact teeth (599.336 N), followed by modified transfixed + RC treated teeth (496.58 N), SFRC + RC treated teeth (469.62 N), RC (443.51 N), circumferential + RC treated teeth (442.835 N), and cavity floor + RC treated teeth (404.623 N) (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the RC and the circumferential technique + RC (p > 0.05). Unrepairable fractures were observed at low rates (20%) in the modified transfixed + RC and SFRC + RC teeth, and at higher rates in RC (73.3%), cavity floor + RC (60%), and circumferential + RC (80%) teeth. The application of an SFRC or the modified transfixed technique yielded an improved fracture strength and the fracture pattern of ETPs being restored with a universal injectable composite.

Ultrasonic elliptical vibration micro-cutting mechanism of CoCrFeNiAlX short fiber reinforced aluminum-based composite

This study explores the precision micro-machining of CoCrFeNiAlX short fiber-reinforced 7A09 aluminum matrix composites, focusing on the interplay between machining parameters and composite properties. The investigation scrutinizes the influence of vibrational amplitude, oscillation frequency, penetration depth, fiber orientation, and aluminum concentration on machining dynamics. Findings reveal that enhancing the X-axis vibrational amplitude to 80 μm is associated with a decrease in machining force, which then rises after reaching a threshold. In contrast, maintaining the Y-axis amplitude below 90 μm significantly increases the machining force. Higher amplitudes and frequencies were observed to reduce machining forces by up to 57% at an ultrasonic frequency of 15 kHz. Employing ultrasonically assisted vibration cutting (UEVC) culminated in a substantial 72% decrease in machining forces when fibers were optimally oriented at 45°. The study also identifies a direct correlation between the cutting temperature and both the vibrational amplitude and penetration depth, with the Y-axis amplitude having a more significant impact, causing a 55% variation in temperature. An increase in frequency initially lowers the cutting temperature, with the lowest temperature of 92 °C achieved at 5 kHz, while the peak temperature occurs at a machining depth of 60 μm. Temperature profiles indicate an initial rise with increased fiber orientation, followed by a decline. A slight increase in aluminum concentration marginally raises the cutting temperature. Furthermore, UEVC is found to produce a parabolic residual stress distribution, where amplitude and penetration depth determine the peak stress levels, and higher frequencies contribute to stress reduction. Fiber orientation also affects residual stress, with proper alignment reducing compressive stress and misalignment increasing it. The lowest point of residual compressive stress is detected in the Al0.6 fiber composite, while the peak is observed in the Al1 composites.

Evaluation of mechanical properties of anatomically customized fiber posts using E-glass short fiber-reinforced composite to restore weakened endodontically treated premolars

ObjectiveThis study was conducted to assess the influence of combining different forms of fiber-reinforced composites (FRC) on the mechanical behavior and bond strength of compromised endodontically treated teeth (ETT).Materials and methodsEighty extracted human premolar teeth were randomly divided into five experimental groups according to the type of intra-radicular restoration and the canal preparation design which was either non-flared (Group 1), flared (Groups 2–5), closed-apex (Groups 1,3,5) or open-apex (Groups 2,4). Standard prefabricated fiber posts were used as intra-radicular restoration for Groups 1–3 while Groups 4–5 were restored with anatomically customized relined fiber posts. After composite core fabrication, all samples were sent for an artificial aging process. Fracture resistance and push-out bond strength tests were then carried out through a universal testing machine followed by mode of failure analysis via a stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope.ResultsPairwise Log-Rank comparisons revealed that the survival rate of Group 2 and Group 3 was significantly lower than all other groups after artificial aging. The highest fracture resistance value (1796 N) was recorded in Group 5 and was significantly higher than that of the other groups (p < 0.05), while Group 2 exhibited the lowest fracture resistance (758 N), which was significantly lower compared to the other groups. Group 5 and Group 4 demonstrated a significantly higher push-out bond strength, at all root thirds, than Group 3, Group 2, and Group 1 (p < 0.05). The most frequently observed failure mode in the tested groups occurred between the resin cement and radicular dentin.ConclusionThe use of short fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) to reline the prefabricated FRC post has been proven to have superior fracture resistance with favorable failure patterns and increased push-out bond strength values compared to standard prefabricated FRC posts.

Elastic moduli prediction of a short fiber composite with interface debonding at fiber ends

This work deals with the fiber ends debonding-induced elastic moduli degradation of a short fiber reinforced composite (SFRC). The strain fields of the matrix in a representative volume element (RVE) of the SFRC are determined from an imaginary fiber technique. By using the debonding boundary conditions, the debonded modulus of the composite is derived, which is affected by not only the far-field but also the transient solutions for the longitudinal strain of the matrix. Particularly, the imaginary fiber technique provides unbounded solution for a moderately large fiber aspect ratio. This is resolved by separating the RVE along the fiber direction into two domains. Combining the longitudinal strains in both domains, the longitudinal modulus is determined, and the longitudinal bridging tensor element in the micromechanics Bridging Model is amended. Five elastic moduli of an SFRC after the fiber end debonding are obtained on the amended Bridging Model. The effects of the fiber volume fraction, fiber aspect ratio, and fiber-to-matrix modulus ratio on the end-debonded longitudinal modulus, transverse modulus, and longitudinal Poisson’s ratio are investigated.

Mechanical Performance of Extensive Restorations Made with Short Fiber-Reinforced Composites without Coverage: A Systematic Review of In Vitro Studies.

In recent years, composite resin materials have been the most frequently used materials for direct restorations of posterior teeth. These materials have some clinically relevant limitations due to their lack of fracture toughness, especially when used in larger cavities with high volume factors or when utilized as direct or indirect overlays or crown restorations. Recently, short-fiber-reinforced composite materials have been used in bi-structure restorations as a dentine substituting material due to their superior mechanical properties; however, there is no scientific consensus as to whether they can be used as full restorations. The aim of our review was to examine the available literature and gather scientific evidence on this matter. Two independent authors performed a thorough literature search using PubMed and ScienceDirect up until December 2023. This study followed the PRISMA guidelines, and the risk of bias was assessed using the QUIN tool. The authors selected in vitro studies that used short-fiber-reinforced composite materials as complete restorations, with a conventional composite material as a comparison group. Out of 2079 potentially relevant articles, 16 met our inclusion criteria. All of the included studies reported that the usage of short-fiber-reinforced composites improved the restoration's load-bearing capacity. Fifteen of the included publications examined the fracture pattern, and thirteen of them reported a more favorable fracture outcome for the short-fiber-reinforced group. Only one article reported a more favorable fracture pattern for the control group; however, the difference between groups was not significant. Within the limitations of this review, the evidence suggests that short-fiber-reinforced composites can be used effectively as complete restorations to reinforce structurally compromised teeth.

Topology Optimization and Efficiency Evaluation of Short-Fiber-Reinforced Composite Structures Considering Anisotropy

The current study aims to develop a methodology for obtaining topology-optimal structures made of short fiber-reinforced polymers. Each iteration of topology optimization involves two consecutive steps: the first is a simulation of the injection molding process for obtaining the fiber orientation tensor, and the second is a structural analysis with anisotropic material properties. Accounting for the molding process during the internal iterations of topology optimization makes it possible to enhance the weight efficiency of structures—a crucial aspect, especially in aerospace. Anisotropy is considered through the fiber orientation tensor, which is modeled by solving the plastic molding equations for non-Newtonian fluids and then introduced as a variable in the stiffness matrix during the structural analysis. Structural analysis using a linear anisotropic material model was employed within the topology optimization. For verification, a non-linear elasto-plastic material model was used based on an exponential-and-linear hardening law. The evaluation of weight efficiency in structures composed of short-reinforced composite materials using a dimensionless criterion is addressed. Experimental verification was performed to confirm the validity of the developed methodology. The evidence illustrates that considering anisotropy leads to stiffer structures, and structural elements should be oriented in the direction of maximal stiffness. The load-carrying factor is expressed in terms of failure criteria. The presented multidisciplinary methodology can be used to improve the quality of the design of structures made of short fiber-reinforced composites (SFRC), where high stiffness, high strength, and minimum mass are the primary required structural characteristics.

Mechanical properties and degree of conversion of resin-based core build-up materials and short fiber-reinforced flowable resin-based composite.

To evaluate the degree of conversion (DC), surface hardness (SH), and flexural strength (FS) of resin-based core build-up materials. Core build-up materials used were: MultiCore Flow (MCF); Activa (ACT); Core-X Flow (CXF); and everX flow (EVX), and DC, SH and FS were measured. An increase of DC was identified for all materials post-cure, except for EVX. The DC change percentage ranged from 5%-33%, and EVX was displayed the greatest DC rate. All materials displayed an SH increase after 30 days and the greatest increase was observed in ACT. At 1 h, the SH of EVX and CXF was different from the other materials. At 30 days, MCF displayed the greatest SH. All materials displayed an increase in their FS after 30 days except for EVX, and ranging 3%-36% were noticed. Differences observed between materials, thus clinician should be acquainted mechanical properties of these materials to ensure the success of the restorations.

Evaluation of microhardness of short fiber-reinforced composites inside the root canal after different light curing methods – An in vitro study

ObjectivesShort fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) materials make it possible to reinforce root canal treated teeth with individualized, directly layered intraradicular posts (the Bioblock technique). The question arises, however, as to whether the photopolymerization of the material is sufficient deep within the root canal space and if it can be improved through different light-conducting options. Our study aimed to investigate the hardness of intraradicular SFRC material applied using the Bioblock technique and cured with various illumination methods, as measured through nanoindentation. Materials and methodsFor this investigation, thirty plastic artificial teeth that had undergone root canal treatment were selected. These teeth were randomly divided into six study groups (Group 1–6; each group consisting of 5 teeth). The restoration procedures involved the use of SFRC or conventional composite materials, placed 6 mm apically from the root canal orifice. In Group 1 and 2, a conventional composite was used, whereas in Group 3–6, SFRC was employed for interradicular reinforcement (with a layered technique in Group 3 and 4 and a bulk-fill technique in Group 5 and 6). A modified light source was utilized for photopolymerization in Group 2, 4, and 6, whereas in Group 3 and 5, the polymerization light was directed through a prefabricated glass fiber posts. The control group (Group 1) utilized conventional composite material with a standard light-curing method. Following embedding and sectioning, the hardness of the composite materials was measured at 2 mm intervals within the root canal (1st, 2nd, 3rd measurements, in the coronal to apical direction). ResultsDuring the 1st measurement, light curing conducted through the glass fiber posts (Group 3 and 5) led to markedly higher hardness levels compared to the groups restored with conventional composite (control group with p = 0.002, p = 0.001, and Group 2 with p = 0.043, p = 0.034, respectively). In the 2nd measurement, only Group 5 demonstrated significantly greater hardness in comparison to the control group (p = 0.003) and Group 2 (p = 0.015). However, in the 3rd measurement, no statistically significant differences were observed among the groups. Conclusionlight curing through the glass fiber post provides outstanding hardness for the SFRC material in the apical layer in the root canal.

Theory-inspired machine learning for stress–strain curve prediction of short fiber-reinforced composites with unseen design space

Computational analysis of composites is well established; however, the process is time-consuming, owing to the disparate length scales and nonlinearities involved. Therefore, the use of machine learning models to predict the mechanical properties of short fiber-reinforced composites (SFRCs) is promising when large amounts of data are lacking. However, predicting data for an unseen design space remains challenging. The use of existing theoretical models for training is a viable solution to address this issue. This paper proposes a theory-guided machine learning (TGML) framework through training deep neural networks, based on the finite element analysis dataset that considers the cohesive effect of the interface, to predict the nonlinear mechanical responses of SFRCs. Our results demonstrate that incorporating the Halpin-Tsai theory with machine learning improves the predictive performance of the model in an unseen design space. Moreover, inspired by this theory, we propose a theory-inspired two-phase machine learning (TPML) approach to further improve predictive performance. Our results indicate that TGML and TPML capture more information from the data and thus enhance predictive performance. The proposed method can be adapted to the analyses of other composites with nonlinear mechanical behaviors.

A High-Generalizability Machine Learning Framework for Analyzing the Homogenized Properties of Short Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites.

This study aims to develop a high-generalizability machine learning framework for predicting the homogenized mechanical properties of short fiber-reinforced polymer composites. The ensemble machine learning model (EML) employs a stacking algorithm using three base models of Extra Trees (ET), eXtreme Gradient Boosting machine (XGBoost), and Light Gradient Boosting machine (LGBM). A micromechanical model of a two-step homogenization algorithm is adopted and verified as an effective approach to composite modeling with randomly distributed fibers, which is integrated with finite element simulations for providing a high-quality ground-truth dataset. The model performance is thoroughly assessed for its accuracy, efficiency, interpretability, and generalizability. The results suggest that: (1) the EML model outperforms the base members on prediction accuracy, achieving R2 values of 0.988 and 0.952 on the train and test datasets, respectively; (2) the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis identifies the Young's modulus of matrix, fiber, and fiber content as the top three factors influencing the homogenized properties, whereas the anisotropy is predominantly determined by the fiber orientations; (3) the EML model showcases good generalization capability on experimental data, and it has been shown to be more effective than high-fidelity computational models by significantly lowering computational costs while maintaining high accuracy.

Numerical simulation and experimental validation of ratchetting deformation of short fiber-reinforced polymer composites

This paper proposes a micromechanical model based on the finite element method (FEM) to analyze the ratchetting deformation of short glass fiber-reinforced polymer composites (SFRPCs). To reasonably consider the complex mechanical characteristics of the polymeric matrix under asymmetrical stress-controlled cyclic loading, a damage-coupled nonlinear viscoelastic-viscoplastic (VE-VP) cyclic constitutive model was constructed. The cyclic constitutive model of the matrix was introduced into the FEM model utilizing a user-defined material, and the corresponding experimental validation of the matrix was conducted. Subsequently, the cyclic constitutive model was introduced into the analysis of the micro-FEM model of the composites. The random orientation was considered to generate fibers in the FEM. Based on the analysis of the microscale representative volume element (RVE) model, the effects of different fiber content and cyclic peak stress on the ratchetting of SFRPCs were studied in detail. After validation, the effects of the fiber length and fiber stiffness on the ratchetting deformation of SFRPCs are discussed based on the developed micro-FEM model. The results show that the increase in the fiber length and fiber stiffness reduced the ratchetting deformation of SFRPCs within a specific content range. The model can assess the ratchetting deformation and damage evolution within the composites to provide more accurate predictions of the ratchetting deformation of SFRPCs and guide the expanded application of SFRPCs in structures.

Physical Properties and Clinical Performance of Short Fiber Reinforced Resin-based Composite in Posterior Dentition: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

This study compares the physical properties and clinical performance of short fiber reinforced composites (SFRC) to those of particulate-filled resin-based composites (PFRC) for class I and II direct restorations in permanent dentition. Systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted using PubMed, Embase (Elsevier), and Dentistry and Oral Sciences Source (EBSCO) databases. The outcomes evaluated were physical properties including flexural strength, flexural modulus, elastic modulus, microhardness, shrinkage, fracture toughness, degree of conversion, and depth of cure. Clinical performance was evaluated with a systematic review. The meta-analyses favored SFRC for flexural strength and fracture toughness compared to every PFRC subgroup, with a high quality of evidence. For all other properties, the meta-analyses favored SFRC to overall PFRC, with some non-significant differences with certain PFRC subgroups. The most recent clinical trial showed SFRC performed similarly to PFRC, however older studies suggest inferior surface texture and discoloration of SFRC compared to PFRC. This study can aid dental professionals in clinical decision making, supporting that SFRC offers improved physical properties, especially fracture resistance and flexural strength, compared to PFRC.

Load-bearing capacity and wear characteristics of short fiber-reinforced composite and glass ceramic fixed partial dentures.

The aim of this study was to evaluate load-bearing capacity and wear performance of experimental short fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) and conventional lithium-disilicate CAD/CAM fabricated fixed partial dentures (FPDs). Two groups (n = 12/group) of three-unit CAD/CAM fabricated posterior FPDs were made. The first group used experimental SFRC blocks, and the second group fabricated from lithium-disilicate (IPS e.max CAD). All FPDs were luted on a zirconia testing jig with dual-curing resin cement. Half of FPDs per group were quasi-statically loaded until fracture. The other half experienced cyclic fatigue aging (100.000 cycles, Fmax = 500 N) before loading quasi-statically until fracture. Fracture mode was examined using SEM. Wear test was performed using 15,000 loading cycles. Both material type and aging had a significant effect on the load-bearing capacity of FPDs. Experimental SFRC CAD without fatigue aging had significantly the highest load-bearing capacity (2096 ± 149N). Cyclic fatigue aging decreased the load-bearing capacity of the SFRC group (1709 ± 188N) but increased it for the lithium-disilicate group (1546 ± 155N). Wear depth values of SFRC CAD (29.3μm) were significantly lower compared to lithium-disilicate (54.2μm). Experimental SFRC CAD demonstrated the highest load-bearing capacity before and after cyclic fatigue aging, and superior wear behavior compared to the control material.

An orientation corrected shaking method for the microstructure generation of short fiber-reinforced composites with almost planar fiber orientation

We present an algorithm for generating short fiber-reinforced microstructures with almost planar fiber orientation. The orientation corrected shaking (OCS) method achieves a high accuracy regarding the volume fraction, fiber length distribution and fiber orientation state. Additionally, the algorithm is capable of generating microstructures for industrial materials, e.g., for a PA66GF35 material with a volume fraction of 19.3% and an aspect ratio of 33. For typical manufacturing processes, short fiber-reinforced composites show a mainly planar fiber arrangement. Therefore, we extend the two-step shaking algorithm of Li et al. [J. Ind. Text. 51(1), pp. 506–530, 2022] for a user-selected rectangular size of the unit cell and periodic boundary conditions. Additionally, the hidden closure structure of the algorithm is uncovered and a precise realization of the fiber orientation state achieved. We examine the representative volume element size for the OCS method, observing representative errors below 2% even for unit cells with edge lengths smaller than the mean fiber length. Additionally, the influence of different closure approximations on the stiffness is investigated. When applied to an industrial PA66GF35 material with sandwich structure, the OCS method demonstrates differences below 2% and 9% for the computed directional Young’s moduli E1 and E2 compared to experimental data.

Multiscale characterization of the fracture mechanics of additively manufactured short fiber-reinforced composites

We present a multiscale characterization approach to experimentally investigate the influence of architectural features, namely pores, weakly bonded filaments’ interfaces, and layer stacking, on the failure of composites manufactured by fused filament fabrication. Combining standard approaches, such as tensile and flexural tests, with contactless techniques, we identified the local phenomena driving the damage of 3D-printed short carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone specimens. The elastic and fracture tests highlighted the process-induced anisotropy and the incomplete interface adhesion resulting in the transverse tensile modulus drop to around 20% of the longitudinal value. Equivalent fracture toughness was measured for a crack propagation along filaments’ and layers’ interfaces, while the stress intensity factors doubled for a crack propagation involving the filaments’ breakage, when compared to the interface failure. The displacement and strain contours obtained by digital image correlation emphasize the influence of the stacking (i.e., 0°–90°, ±45°) on the preferential crack propagation at the layers’ and filaments’ interfaces. The specimen inspection by scanning electron microscopy and by X-ray tomography further highlighted the influence of the printed composites’ meso and microscale architecture on the fracture mechanisms, such as the simultaneous damage of parallel ±45° oriented layers’ interfaces or the zig-zag crack propagation for specimens with ±45° stacking undergoing intralayer delamination. The elastic and fracture properties, together with the full-field measurements, provide the tools to guide the design of complex and reliable components for high-performance applications (e.g., aerospace, automotive) and benchmark for damage prediction models.

Adhesion of individually formed fiber post adhesively luted with flowable short fiber composite

This laboratory study aimed to measure the push-out bond strength of individually formed fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) post luted with flowable short fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) and to evaluate the influence of post coating with light-cured adhesive. Post spaces (Ø 1.7 mm) were drilled into 20 single-rooted decoronated premolar teeth. Post spaces were etched and treated with light-cured universal adhesive (G-Premio Bond). Individually formed FRC posts (Ø 1.5 mm, everStick) were luted either with light-cured SFRC (everX Flow) or conventional particulate-filled (PFC) dual-cure luting cement (G-CEM LinkForce). Half of the posts from each group were treated with dimethacrylate adhesive resin (Stick Resin) for 5 min before luting. After storage in water for two days, the roots were sectioned into 2 mm thick disks (n = 10/per group). Then, a push-out test-setup was used in a universal testing machine to measure the bond strength between post and dentin. The interface between post and SFRC was inspected using optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were statistically analyzed using analysis of variance ANOVA (p = .05). Higher bond strength values (p < .05) were obtained when flowable SFRC was used as a post luting material. Resin coating of a post showed no significant effect (p > .05) on bond strength values. Light microscope images showed the ability of discontinuous short fibers in SFRC to penetrate into FRC posts. The use of flowable SFRC as luting material with individually formed FRC posts proved to be a promising method to improve the interface adhesion.

Adaptation of Relined Fiber Post Using Discontinuous Short Fiber-Reinforced Resin Composite to Restore Weakened Endodontically-Treated Premolars

Abstract Objective This study aimed to investigate the effect of relining prefabricated fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) posts using bulk-fill, flowable, discontinuous short fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) on intracanal adaptation in weakened endodontically-treated premolar teeth. Materials and Methods Forty extracted human premolar teeth were selected and randomly allocated to five groups (n = 8) according to the canal preparation method and restorative technique after endodontic treatment: Group 1 (control): nonflared, closed apex root canals; group 2, 4: flared, open-apex root canals; group 3, 5: flared, closed apex root canals. Groups 1 to 3 were restored with standard RelyX fiber post size #1, while groups 4 and 5 were restored with customized RelyX fiber post size #1 and relined with bulk-fill flowable SFRC (everX Flow, GC, Tokyo, Japan). To evaluate intracanal adaptation, the empty root of each sample with the corresponding fiber post (standard or customized) inserted was measured twice using a micro-digital scale and the average value was calculated. The post was then removed, followed by the insertion of a light body polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) impression material into the canal, followed by reinsertion of the post and removal of excess material once the PVS was set. Finally, the sample weight was recorded, and the data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and the Bonferroni post hoc test (p-value = 0.05). Results A statistically significant difference (p &lt; 0.05) in PVS material weight was identified between the groups. Group 1 (control) had the lightest weight of PVS material, followed by groups restored with customized fiber posts (groups 4 and 5) and standard fiber posts (groups 2 and 3). Conclusion Anatomically-customized fiber posts with bulk-fill flowable SFRC provided better intracanal adaptation compared with standard fiber posts in teeth with compromised root canals.

Structural and Mechanical Investigation of Class I Biomimetic Composite Dental Filling by X-ray Computed Tomography, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Microtensile Bond Strength Testing

Nowadays, short fiber-reinforced composites are broadly used in modern restorative dentistry. The tensile strength, Young's modulus, density, and polymerization shrinkage of these materials are developed to mimic the original teeth tissue best. The shrinkage, however, will occur during any polymerization process, which can cause residual stress and gap formation between the tooth and the filling. These can lead to the propagation of cracks, reduction in the adhesive bond strength, or even cause separation in the restoration. During this research, a biomimetic dental restoration was created on a surgically removed third molar with EverX short-fiber reinforced dental composite by bulk-filling technique. The restored tooth sample was examined by X-ray computed tomography to obtain a 3D image of the whole restoration. The volume of the used adhesive, the material discontinuities, and internal cavities were determined. A cut-out slice was further investigated by scanning electron microscopy to examine the adhesive layer thickness, the gap formation, and the quality of the filling. Finally, microtensile specimens were machined to evaluate the bond strength between the tooth dentin and the filling material.

Effect of short fiber-reinforced composite combined with polyethylene fibers on fracture resistance of endodontically treated premolars

Statement of problemWhether direct coronal restorations of endodontically treated teeth with short fiber-reinforced composite combined with polyethylene fibers provide adequate mechanical strength is unclear. PurposeThe purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the fracture strength of endodontically treated premolars with standardized mesio-occluso-distal (MOD) preparations restored with short fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) combined with polyethylene Ribbond fibers (PRFs). Material and methodsA total of 40 premolars were selected and distributed into 4 groups (n=10) as follows: group restored with SFRC (EverX Posterior), group restored with PRF (Ribbond fibers), and group restored with the combination PRF+SFRC, all followed by a conventional composite resin (IPS Empress Direct). MOD preparations and endodontic treatments were prepared except in the control group (intact teeth). MOD preparations and endodontic treatments were prepared except in the control group (intact teeth). Specimens were loaded using a universal testing machine until fracture occurred at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min, and the failure type and fracture patterns was reported descriptively. The mean values of the groups were analyzed by using the Shapiro-Wilk test and 1-way ANOVA tests (α=.05). ResultsRestoration with PRF+SFRC provided the highest mean ±standard deviation fracture resistance (288.2 ±73.5 N). Restoration with just PRF had the lowest values (192.4 ±25.4 N), which were statistically different from those of SFRC and PRF+SFRC (P<.05). The predominant mode of failure was mixed, and all fracture patterns were favorable. ConclusionsReinforcing endodontically treated premolars with MOD cavities with Ribbond fibers followed by a conventional composite resin enhanced fracture resistance and may be suitable for the direct coronal restoration of large posterior cavities in stress-bearing areas.