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The influence of nano - filler on microstructure homogeneity and selected properties of dental ceramic - polymer composites

Joanna E. Siejka - Kulczyk ,  Malgorzata Lewandowska ,  Krzysztof J. Kurzydlowski 

Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering (InMat), Wołoska 141, Warszawa 02-507, Poland

Abstract

The mechanical and physical properties of polymer matrix composites can be strongly affected by the introduction of nano-sized particles. However, the main difficulty in this term is their appropriate distribution. The aim of this study is to determine the microstructure homogeneity of nano-particles containing composites intended for dental applications. Its influence on selected mechanical and physical properties was also investigated.

In the present study, the composites based on the bis - GMA and TEGDMA resins reinforced with a ceramic glass micro - filler and a nano - silica were fabricated. Volume fraction of ceramic phase was 45 - 60 %, including nano-silica. The volume fractions of the nano - filler were: 5, 10, 15, 20 %. The microstructures of composite materials were observed using high resolution scanning electron microscope. The homogeneity of nano-particles distribution was analyzed using the tessellation methods. It was found that for larger volume fractions, the nano-particles form agglomerates. Mechanical and physical properties, such as water sorption and solubility were determined and correlated with the tendency of nano-particles to agglomeration.
 

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Related papers

Presentation: Poster at E-MRS Fall Meeting 2006, Symposium D, by Joanna E. Siejka - Kulczyk
See On-line Journal of E-MRS Fall Meeting 2006

Submitted: 2006-05-13 20:29
Revised:   2009-06-07 00:44