Effects of incorporating aluminum oxide nanoparticles on the polymer structure, porosity, surface roughness, and hardness of denture base materials
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The present study aimed to evaluate the polymer structure, surface roughness, hardness, and porosity of heat-cured acrylic resin modified with two different concentrations of aluminum oxide (Al 2 O 3 ) nanoparticles. A total of 90 specimens were fabricated and divided into three main groups ( n = 10) according to the test; each group was further divided into three subgroups based on the loading ratio of Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles: heat-cured samples without addition (control group) and heat-cured samples incorporating with Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles at 1 and 2 wt%. The polymer structure, surface roughness, surface hardness, and porosity were assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, a profilometer, a Shore D hardness tester, a photomicroscope, and the Archimedes method, respectively. FTIR spectra showed hydrogen bonding between carbonyl groups and Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles, indicating enhanced filler-matrix interactions at higher loadings, the addition of 2 wt% Al₂O₃ improved interfacial adhesion but may increase hydrophilicity, representing a trade-off for applications requiring moisture resistance. Notably, a significant decrease in porosity and surface roughness, along with an increase in surface hardness, was observed in heat-cured acrylic resin containing 1 wt%. Conversely, increasing the nanoparticle loading to 2 wt% increased porosity and surface roughness and decreased surface hardness. These laboratory findings demonstrated that Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles can modify the surface and structural properties of 3D‑printed denture base resins. In particular, the 1 wt% Al 2 O 3 composite showed the best short‑term surface properties.
Source: Discover Materials
Institutions: University of Kufa, Islamic University of Najaf
Language: English
Subfield: Orthodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,590
OpenAlex ID: W7171250759
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