Reinforce Acrylic Resin with Different Kinds of Fibers After Breaking
Author(s): Zbigniew Raszewski*
Abstract
Introduction: Every year, thousands of acrylic dentures break, which creates additional costs for patients. One of the treatment options may be denture repair along with the use of a thread as reinforcement. Purpose of the study was to assess the effect of a different fiber’s reinforcement on the flexural strength and Isolde impact resistance of conventional heat-polymerized poly (methyl methacrylate) [PMMA] resin repair with self- curing material.
Materials and methods: Totally 192 specimens of standard dimensions were prepared for each of the eight experimental groups; unreinforced conventional acrylic resin, material breaking and glue with self-curing resins and the same resin reinforced with unidirectional glass, carbon, polyethylene fibers. Each group was further subdivided into two groups of 12 specimens, based on storage conditions (dry and wet). Samples were then subjected to a 3-point bending test and flexural strength (FS) was calculated. Second group was tested for Isolde impact resistance (IS).
Results and discussion: Samples repair with self-curing resins have lower mechanical properties more than 30% compare to hot curing resin. Reinforcing of repairing samples with different kinds of fibers can improve flexural strength and impact resistance. The best results were observed for plasma treated PE fibers and carbon fibers. Storage long time in water can reduce FS about 20% and improve IS more than 5% for samples with fibers and 20% for samples without reinforcement due to water plasticizing effect.
Conclusion: Acrylic prosthesis after breaking can be reinforced with different kinds of fibers to prevent further fractures.