The properties of experimental silicones reinforced with silica fillers for dentistry

Abstract

Purpose: Silicone materials crosslinked during the hydrosilylation reaction are common in dental prosthetics and dentistry. These materials are characterized by a relatively very good properties. However, one of the fundamental problems associated with the use of such polymers is a low resistance to microbial colonization. Numerus fillers with antimicrobial potential have been used experimentally for a decade. Anyway point of concern in this type of work is the use of commercially available materials as the matrix. However, the composition of the matrix for this materials is not clearly known. Therefore, the aim of this study was to obtain a two-component silicone material, crosslinking at room temperature, with properties corresponding to the needs of dental prosthetics, in particular as denture soft linings. Such material would be a starting point to obtain more sophisticated compositions, however, of known composition in full. Design/methodology/approach: As the matrix the mixtures of polymers were prepared. As the “catalyst” component a vinyl polydimethylsiloxane with platinum catalyst in xylene was prepared. As the “base” component a mixture of vinyl polydimethylsiloxane with methylhydrosiloxane - dimethylsiloxane copolymer was made. One of the two fillers differing in the functionalizing was added into prepared substrates (10 or 15% by weight) and ultrasonically homogenized. The Shore A hardness, tensile strength, bond strength to denture base material, water sorption and solubility were investigated. Measurements were made after different aging periods in distilled water at 37±1°C. Findings: The study showed an increase in mechanical properties with increasing concentrations of fillers. The type of filler significantly affects the test results. Increasing the aging time effects on increasing the hardness of materials. Water absorption and solubility were within the desired range. Research limitations/implications: Research limitations/implications The results of the presented research may be generally dependent on technology of fillers introduction into polymers matrix. Practical implications: The results show promising properties of the tested materials. It can be used as starting material for further studies on soft or super soft denture lining and other materials characterized by similar requirements. Originality/value: The method of receiving silicone - based composites with properties required for the selected prosthetic materials, especially denture soft linings was presented. Their properties were similar to commercially available products.