The effect of carbon nanotubes/bioglass nanocomposite on mechanical and bioactivity properties of glass ionomer cement

Abstract

The aim of this study is to manufacture and characterize Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs)/bioglass (BG) to improve the mechanical and biocompatibility properties of Glass-Ionomer Cement (GIC). The powder of Glass-Ionomer Cements was prepared through fusion, and carbon nanotubes and bioactive glass were manufactured through fusion and added to the cement to improve its mechanical and bioactive properties. To evaluate the biological adaptation of manufactured composites, they were placed in Simulated Body Fluid (SBF). Finally, the compressive strength test and erosion test showed that the mechanical properties of Glass-Ionomer Cement are two-fold of those when 1% carbon nanotubes are used (P < 0.001). The electrical conductivity of BG increased by 8 orders of magnitude after incorporation of 6.35 wt% of CNTs compared with pure BG. Short-duration tests were used in this study for preliminary evaluation of the effect of incorporating CNTs on fibroblasts. Analysis of cell proliferation, viability, and phenotype expression of PDL (periodontal ligament) fibroblasts showed inhibition on CNT-BG-GIC composite surfaces. Based on the results, the material exhibited optimized properties which can be used in restorative dental materials and lining and sealing fillers in dentistry.