Flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of indirect composite resins

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to evaluate the flexural strength and elastic modulus of indirect composite resins compared with direct composite resin. Two indirect composite resins (Artglass, AR and Belle Glass HP, BE) and one direct composite resin (Filtek™ Z250, Z2) were tested. Fifteen standard specimens (25x2x2mm) were prepared for each material. Z2 was polymerized using a XL 3000 light curing unit with energy higher than 450 mW/cm² for 40 seconds. The AR was photopolymerized with intense pulsed visible ligth during 180 seconds, at 520 nm/20 Hz. BE was photopolymerized during 60 seconds at 500 nm and post-cured at 138°C, under pressure, in a nitrogen atmosphere for 20 minutes. The specimens were stored in distilled water at 37°C for seven days and, then, subjected to FS and EM tests, using a universal testing machine. One-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test were used. The mean flexural values (MPa) were AR = 126.8 ± 16.8; BE = 145.2 ± 14.3; Z2 = 140.0, without significant differences (p>0.05). Significant differences (p<0.01) were observed regarding elastic modulus, as follow BE (15.1 ± 1.7) > Z2 (9.6 ± 1.5) > AR (7.5 ± 1.0). Within the limitations of the study, it was concluded that significant differences were only observed for elastic modulus, with the direct material exhibiting lower values.