Preparation and Investigation of Mechanical Properties of Glass Ionomer Cement/Carbon Nanotube/Baghdadite Nanocomposite Abstract

Considering the importance of glass-ionomer cements (GICs) in dentistry and their poor mechanical properties, the aim of this study was to improve their mechanical properties by manufacturing a glass-ionomer‒carbon nanotube‒baghdadite nanocomposite by adding carbon nanotubes and baghdadite nanoparticles.
In the present experimental study, carbon nanotubes with 0.5 wt% and baghdadite nanoparticles in 1, 3 and 5 wt% were added to the cement component of a commercial glass-ionomer cement (Fuji ІІ GC) for preparing glass-ionomer‒carbon nanotube‒baghdadite nanocomposite. Then the mechanical properties of the samples were evaluated by the cold compressive strength (CCS), three-point flexural strength (FS) and diametral tensile strength (DTS) tests. In addition, the fractured sample surfaces were evaluated after the compressive strength test under a scanning electron microscope. Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA at a significance level of p value Based on the results of mechanical tests, the composite containing 0.5 wt% of carbon nanotubes and 1 wt% of baghdadite nanoparticles exhibited the highest compressive strength, diametral tensile strength and flexural strength. In addition, SEM micrographs indicated a decrease in pores in the composite structure and a decrease in stress concentration and propagation of cracks, resulting in an increase in the mechanical strength of samples.
According to the results, the most appropriate sample for dental and orthopedic applications in load-bearing areas is glass-ionomer cement containing 0.5 wt% carbon nanotubes and 1 wt% baghdadite.