Effect of Graphene Oxide Incorporation on the Strength of Denture Repair Resin

Abstract

To evaluate the effect of incorporating graphene oxide nanoparticles (GO NPs) and graphene sheets on the flexural strength of an auto-polymerized (AP) acrylic resin-repaired denture. 60 heat-activated (HA) resin specimens were fabricated and randomly divided into 6 groups (n = 10). The specimens in Group I were kept intact. 50 specimens were cut into two parts with a 45-degree bevel. Group II specimens were repaired with AP resin and Group III specimens were repaired with HA resin. In the repair of Group IV, Group V, and Group VI specimens, 1%, 2% GO NPs, and graphene sheets were added to AP resin, respectively. A 3-point bending test with a universal test device measured the flexural strength. Statistical analyses of the results were performed with the Kruskal Wallis H-test. (α = 0.05) The flexural strength of Group I (130.05 ± 20.20 MPa) was the highest among all groups. The flexural strength of Group IV (67.49 ± 12.70 MPa) was significantly higher than Group V (50.87 ± 15.02 MPa) and Group VI (44.77 ± 10.70 MPa). The lowest strength value was obtained in Group VI. Adding 1% GO NPs to AP acrylic resins increases flexural strength. However, the increase in nanoparticle concentration and the addition of graphene sheets negatively affect strength.