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Compositional and Weave Pattern Analyses of Glass Fibers in Dental Polymer Fiber Composites
Author(s) -
Vallittu Pekka K.
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
journal of prosthodontics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.902
H-Index - 60
eISSN - 1532-849X
pISSN - 1059-941X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1532-849x.1998.tb00200.x
Subject(s) - composite material , materials science , glass fiber , scanning electron microscope , fiber , ultimate tensile strength , composite number , polymer , boron oxide , oxide , metallurgy
Purpose This study compared weave patterns and glass compositions of five glass fiber materials found in commercial fiber‐reinforced dental composites. Materials and Methods A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to investigate the woven structure of five glass fiber products, and an energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectrometer (SEM/EDS) was used to determine the elemental composition of these glass fibers in the bulk and at the surface of the fiber. Five fibers of each product were analyzed. Results The fiber products were either unidirectional rovings or bidirectional weaves. More precisely, the woven structures were linen weave, twill weave, or twill weave ribbon. SEM/EDS analysis revealed that the composition of the glass fibers was typical for E (electrical)‐glass fibers with one exception. One product intended for use in fixed prosthodontics included unidirectional fibers with a composition consistent with a modified high‐tensile‐strength R‐glass. Boron oxide found on the surface of glass fibers would likely contribute to an increased potential for corrosion of fiber‐reinforced composite. Conclusions The predominant fiber composition in these products is E‐glass. Because the degree of hydrolytic stability of polymer‐fiber composites over time may lead to material failure in permanent restorations, this property should be investigated further.