The Effects of Hybrid Nano addition on Maxillofacial Silicone Elastomer VST50F Mechanical Properties

Purpose: To investigate the effects of hybrid nano (Tio2 – Al2o3) addition on maxillofacial silicone elastomer mechanical properties. Methods: A total of 70 samples were prepared and divided into 7 groups; control, 1% Tio2 (nano-titanium oxides), 2% Tio2, 1% Al2o3 (nano-alumina oxides), 2% Al2o3, 0.5% Tio2-0.5% Al2o3, and 1% Tio2-1% Al2o3. which was added to silicone elastomer. Samples were exposed to artificial weathering for 250 hours, then tested for tear strength and roughness tests. 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 tear strengths with an acceptable increase in the mean value for roughness was observed in samples containing 2% Tio2, followed by the samples with a hybrid of 1% Tio2-1% Al2o3, compared to the control and other groups. Conclusions: The addition of Tio2, Al2o3, and hybrid nanoparticles addition to maxillofacial silicone improved its mechanical properties. Hybrid nanoparticle filler reinforcement is encouraging for enhancing tear strength and roughness properties values for the longevity of maxillofacial silicone.