Evaluating the effect of barium titanate nanofiller addition on the thermal conductivity and physio-mechanical properties of maxillofacial silicone

Abstract

Background: Silicone elastomers have been extensively used as the most acceptable material in the manufacturing of maxillofacial and other kinds of prosthetic devices. The durability of maxillofacial prostheses depends on the material chosen, the patient's attitude and feelings regarding the prosthesis, and how they perform for specific needs. Aims: This study aimed to investigate the influence of adding barium titanate (BaTiO3) nanoparticles on the mechanical and physical characteristics of room-temperature-vulcanized (RTV) VerSilTal (VST-50) maxillofacial silicone elastomer, including thermal conductivity, tear strength, and water absorption and solubility. Materials and methods: 0.5 wt% and 0.75 wt% BaTiO3 nanoparticles were added to RTV VST-50 platinum silicone elastomer. Ninety specimens were prepared and divided into three main groups: one control group and two experimental groups (0.5 and 0.75 wt%). The collected data were statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey (HSD) test (significant level at P ≤ 0.05). The homogeneity and normal distribution of data were assessed by Levene's and Shapiro Wilk's tests, respectively. Result: Both experimental groups showed a remarkable increase in tear strength, thermal conductivity, and water absorption compared with the nonadditive control group. For solubility, the group of 0.5 wt% additive showed an insignificant increase, whereas the group of 0.75 wt% showed a significant increase compared with the control group. Conclusion: The addition of BaTiO3 nanoparticles to RTV VST-50 enhanced the thermal conductivity and tear strength. Water absorption and solubility were also increased, but the values were clinically insignificant. FTIR revealed no chemical interaction between BaTiO3 and silicone. FE-SEM showed the uniform scattering of BaTiO3 inside the silicone matrix.