Enhanced bioactivity and low temperature degradation resistance of yttria stabilized zirconia/clay composites for dental applications

Yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ)/clay composites were produced to improve osseointegration and undesired tetragonal-to-monoclinic phase transformation (low temperature degradation, LTD) of YSZ ceramics so that long-term clinical success of YSZ implants is achieved. Various amounts (0.5,1,2, and 4 wt%) of clay was incorporated to YSZ. Predetermined amounts of clay and YSZ were mixed and pressed uniaxially at 15 MPa into compacts that were subsequently pressureless sintered at 1450 degrees C. Density, compressive strength, hardness and indentation crack resistance of 4 wt% clay incorporated YSZ/clay composite were 5.77 +/- 0.01 g/cm3, 1188 +/- 121 MPa, 1223 +/- 9 HV, and 4.4 +/- 0.1 MPa root m, respectively. Additionally, biological properties of YSZ/clay composites were assessed in vitro using bone cells. Incorporation of 4 wt% clay significantly enhanced bone cell prolifer-ation, spreading, and functions. Moreover, a significant increase in the LTD resistance of YSZ was achieved upon 4 wt% clay incorporation. The findings collectively suggest that YSZ/clay composites have a potential to be used as an alternative material for dental applications.