Synthesis of new dental nanocomposite with glass nanoparticles

Objective(s): The aim of this study was to synthesis new dental nanocomposites reinforced with fabricated glass nanoparticles and compare two methods for fabrication and investigate the effect of this filler on mechanical properties. Materials and Methods: The glass nanoparticles were produced by wet milling process. The particle size and shape was achieved using PSA and SEM. Glass nanoparticles surface was modified with MPTMS silane. The composite was prepared by mixing these silane-treated nanoparticles with monomers. The resin composition was UDMA /TEGDMA (70/30 weight ratio). Three composites were developed with 5, 7.5 and 10 wt% glass fillers in each group. Two preparation methods were used, in dispersion in solvent method (group D) glass nanoparticles were sonically dispersed in acetone and the solution was added to resin, then acetone was evaporated. In non-dispersion in solvent method (group N) the glass nanoparticles were directly added to resin. Mechanical properties were investigated included flexural strength, flexural modulus and Vickers hardness. Results: Higher volume of glass nanoparticles improves mechanical properties of composite. Group D has batter mechanical properties than group N. Flexural strength of composite with 10%w filler of group D was 75Mpa against 59 Mpa of the composite with the same filler content of group N. The flexural modulus and hardness of group D is more than group N. Conclusion: It can be concluded that dispersion in solvent method is the best way to fabricate nanocomposites and glass nanoparticles is a significant filler to improve mechanical properties of dental nanocomposite.