IMPACT STRENGTH OF E-GLASS REINFORCED PMMA

BACKGROUND: Poly methyl methacrylate is one of the most widely accepted biomaterial in prosthetic dentistry due to its biocompatibility, insoluble and non corrosive characteristics, good transparency, good color stability over the years, easy to process and repair, dimensionally stable, comparatively low density (1.19g/cm(3)), and low heat distortion temperature. However these materials are far from being ideal because of their inferior mechanical and thermal properties. So the present study is to achieve the desirable impact strength of poly methyl methacrylate material, by reinforcing it with E glass fibers. AIM: Determination of impact strength of PMMA denture base by varying the weight percentage of glass fiber, by varying the aspect ratio of glass fiber. Determination of the optimum property of the PMMA denture base using the correct weight percentage and aspect ratio. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Specimens prepared using a standard cylindrical mold of 8mm diameter and 45mm length. A total of 100 samples prepared (10 samples in each group) Polymer -monomer ratio 2.4:1 by Weight used to prepare samples. Impact strength is tested using balanced impact testing apparatus. The micro structural analysis using SEM performed for the specimen which showed the highest impact strength value. Detailed statistical analysis done by one way ANOVA. RESULTS: Highest impact strength is obtained with 12mm long fiber reinforced in 10weight percentage concentration.