Addition effect of partially stabilized zirconia (ZrO2.Y2O3) filler on some properties of unsaturated polyester resin base matrix composite for In-Vivo applications

Polyester-based materials are established options, concerning the production of bone fixation apparatuses as well as the apparatuses in routine clinical application. The objective of present work is to assess the influence of partially stabilized zirconia (PSZ) particles incorporation using 5.4%wt. of Yittria particles (ZrO2.Y2O3) on some mechanical properties and water absorption of unsaturated polyester, as well as to establish which features of such material provide the best outcomes aiming their biomedical implementation. The effect of added ceramic filler of partially stabilized zirconia (PSZ) (ZrO2.Y2O3) on the tensile strength, hardness, impact strength, and the water absorption percentage of the unsaturated polyester resin base composite, was studied at the weight fractions of (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6) % wt. and the particle size < 53 µm. Tensile strength and modulus of elasticity reached their peak values at a 2% weight of PSZ. In contrast, impact strength, hardness, and water absorption percentage exhibited their highest values at higher PSZ ratios. The addition of PSZ particles resulted in a decrease in elongation percentage overall.The addition of PSZ particles at a certain amount manifested a positive influence upon the unsaturated polyester improving their utilization in the medical field, particularly if some anatomical areas require higher materials strength, giving long life for the rehabilitation, and providing the potential for improving the clinical performances of the fracture fixation apparatuses.