Setting and flexural properties of metal-resin composite using Ag-Cu particles as filler and chemical accelerator.

A metal-resin composite material was experimentally prepared by mixing a powder consisting of Ag-Cu particles and BPO with a paste consisting of UDMA-based monomer and 4-META in the absence of tertiary amine. The working time and setting time were mainly affected by the amounts of 4-META, BPO and metal particles, most of them fulfilling the requirements for working time and setting time specified in ISO 4049:2000 in the present experimental conditions. The flexural strength ranged from 49.6 MPa to 77.8 MPa, and the highest value was obtained when the 4-META concentration was high and metal particle content was low. The flexural modulus of elasticity, ranging from 6.7 GPa to 11.9 GPa, significantly increased as the 4-META concentration and metal particle content increased. Based on its mechanical properties, this metal-resin composite in which metal particles are involved in the polymerization initiation system has the potential to be used as a dental restorative material.