Comparative Evaluation of Surface Property Changes in Newly Developed Silicones Under Indoor and Outdoor Weathering

Abstract The study aimed to assess how weathering, both indoors and outside, affected the surface characteristics of newly developed silicone elastomers. 90 specimens were made and divided into 2 primary groups based on the surface roughness and hardness tests. Three environmental protocols were used to condition the specimens: baseline, six months of indoor and outdoor weathering. To guarantee consistency and accuracy in measurements, both surface roughness and hardness samples were manufactured in compliance with ISO 48 − 4:2018. The impacts of weathering conditions and material groups were assessed using one-way and two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), with significance taken into consideration at P < 0.05. Both at baseline and following six months of indoor and outdoor weathering, the hardness test results revealed statistically significant differences (P < 0.001). At baseline, indoor, and outdoor weathering, surface roughness results showed non-significant changes across the groups (P > 0.05). It was concluded that the surface hardness considerably improved after six months of indoor and outdoor weathering, with Z004 showing the highest values. The 80H/20L formulation showed significantly more surface roughness after weathering, although it might still be sufficient for maxillofacial applications.