Tensile Strength of Denture Base Material Reinforced With Zirconia Nanoparticle and Glass Fibers

Purpose: The current study was conducted to determine the effect of hybrid reinforcement with zirconium oxide nanoparticles (NZ) and glass fibers (GF) on the tensile strength of denture base resin.   Materials and methods: Different ratios of NZ/ GF were added into resin at a fixed concentration of 5% by weight. For each formulation (one control and 7 experimental groups), ten specimens were prepared in a dumbbell shape using a stainless steel mold. Tensile strength was evaluated by using a universal testing machine. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to study the fractured surfaces.   Results: Tensile strength of the specimens reinforced with NZ/GF in varying ratios was found to be higher than that of the control group. Among the hybrid groups, the specimens reinforced with 50%NZ-50%GF showed the highest tensile strength. SEM fractographs showed multiple lamellae displayed surface, which is characteristic of strong material. Weak adhesion and pull out of fibers from the matrix were seen in high concentration GF.   Conclusion: The incorporation of 50%NZ-50%GF into acrylic denture base appeared to improve the tensile strength.