Subcritical Crack Growth Velocities (v-K Curves) of Dental Bioceramics

Abstract

In this study the subcritical crack growth (SCG) behaviors of five dental bioceramics were evaluated in order to plot the crack growth velocity versus stress intensity factor (v-K) curves. Disc-shaped samples of two sintered porcelains, two glass-ceramics, and a glass-infiltrated ceramic composite were prepared and tested in artificial saliva using a biaxial flexure jig. The SCG parameters were evaluated by the dynamic fatigue test using five constant stress-rates and in an inert condition. Among the tested materials, the lithium disilicate glass-ceramic showed the highest susceptibility to strength degradation by SCG, whereas the glass infiltrated alumina composite showed the lowest susceptibility. The v-K curves showed that the SCG susceptibility significantly affects the crack growth velocity of the different bioceramics.