Evaluation of Maxillofacial Silicone Implant Superstructure Material Mechanical Properties after Addition of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles

BACKGROUND This study is to investigate the effects of titanium dioxide addition on maxillofacial silicone implant superstructure material mechanical properties. METHODS A total of 60 samples were prepared and divided into 6 groups; control, 1% Tio2 (nano-titanium oxides), 1.5% Tio2, 2% Tio2, 2.5% Tio2, 3% Tio2 which was added to (VST30) silicone elastomer. Samples were exposed to artificial weathering for 600 hours, then tested for tensile strength and Shore A hardness. The data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA to determine the differences between groups. RESULTS After artificial weathering, a high increase in the mean value for tensile strength with a significant increase in hardness in samples containing 2.5% Tio2, followed by the samples with 2% Tio2 compared to the control and other groups. CONCLUSIONS The addition of Tio2 nanoparticles to maxillofacial silicone improved its mechanical properties. Tio2 nanoparticle filler reinforcement is encouraging for enhancing tensile strength and Shore A hardness properties values for the longevity of maxillofacial silicone.