مرکز منطقه ای اطلاع رساني علوم و فناوري - Evaluation of the Physical Properties of Maxillofacial Silicone Elastomers Reinforced with Silica

Abstract :

Purpose: One of the problems encountered in silicone elastomers used for facial prosthesis is degradation especially at the edges and gradually the need for refabricating. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of silica used for reinforcement of silicone elastomer added in various ratios on the physical properties of the material. Material and Methods: Silica in 10, 20 and 30% ratios were added into the silicone elastomer. Then tensile strength, elongation percent, tear strength and hardness values were measured. As the data were evaluated, repeated measures analysis of variances were used in the comparison of quantative data and Post-Hoc Bonferroni Test was used to determine the measurements that caused significance. Significance was assessed at p 0.05 level. Results: Tear strength was observed to be highest as 20% silica was added. Elongation ratio was highest in pure silicone and then 10% silica addition. Tear strength was observed to be highest in 30% silica addition; however, hardness was highest in this ratio as well. Conclusion: 20% silica addition has been found to have a positive effect on the strength of silicone elastomer. The additions over this ratio were observed to distort the structure.