RESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: To explore the reinforcement of polyglycidyl methacrylate (PGMA) pre-impregnated quartz fiber mesh in denture base materials by investigation of interface compatibility and fracture resistance. METHODS: 1-layer, 2-layer, 3-layer PGMA pre-impregnated quartz fiber meshes, electrolyzed cobalt-chromium alloy mesh and cobalt-chromium alloy mesh conditioned by metal primer were integrated in polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) resin by sandwich embedding method. Block samples of 5 groups were prepared (40 mm×15 mm×2 mm). Fracture resistance was determined in a 3-point bending test at 2 mm/min. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), micrographs were taken from the fractured surfaces to analyze the bonding interface compatibility. RESULTS: The group of 3-layer PGMA pre-impregnated quartz fiber mesh presented the highest elastic modulus of 6 406 MPa and flexural strength of 227 MPa among the five groups, while the 1-layer and 2-layer expressed the similar elastic modulus and flexural strength to the pure PMMA group. The metal groups demonstrated better mechanical properties, while the metal surface conditioner played much better. The metal surface conditioner pre-impregnated cobalt-chromium alloy and PGMA pre-impregnated quartz fiber mesh showed compatible interface with PMMA. CONCLUSION: The mechanical properties were improved by the increasing of the fiber by adding the more meshed. Although the benign interface did help the compatibility, the quantity of the fibers played an important role in the strength.