Assessing the Effect of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles on some Mechanical Properties of Maxillofacial Silicone

Abstract

Purpose: Silicone elastomers are extensively used in the fabrication of maxillofacial prostheses, yet their characteristics are far from optimal. Key factors necessitating the frequent re-fabrication of these prostheses include their limited lifespan and the deterioration of both their color and mechanical properties. This study aims to evaluate the impact of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles (CuO NPs) on the mechanical properties of VST 50F maxillofacial silicone.

Materials and Methods: A total of 120 specimens were prepared, with 30 specimens for each test. Five mechanical tests—tear strength, tensile strength, percentage of elongation, Shore A hardness, and surface roughness—were conducted with two experimental groups and a control group for each test.

Results: Statistical analysis showed a significant increase in tear strength for both experimental groups (P < 0.05). Group B had a 12.5% increase (23.89 kN/m), while Group C had a 21.57% increase (25.81 kN/m) compared to the control (21.23 kN/m). Tensile strength improved as well, with Group B up by 13.9% (4.655 MPa) and Group C by 14.0% (4.660 MPa) compared to the control (4.08 MPa). Shore A hardness increased by 7.98% (33.34 IU) for Group B and 14.58% (35.37 IU) for Group C, with decreases in elongation—Group B down 3.36% (864.80) and Group C down 3.80% (860.86) vs. control (894.87). There was, however, a non-significant increase in surface roughness (P > 0.05): Group B up by 4.48% (0.303 µm) and Group C by 5.17% (0.305 µm) compared to control (0.290 µm).

Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that CuO NPs can improve silicone elastomers' shortcomings. However, further studies are required to fully comprehend these NPs' long-term effects and how they affect other silicone material physical properties.