Comparative Evaluation of Surface Property Changes in Newly Developed Silicones Under Indoor and Outdoor Weathering
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: The study aimed to assess how weathering, both indoors and outside, affected the surface characteristics of newly developed silicone elastomers. 90 specimens were made and divided into 2 primary groups based on the surface roughness and hardness tests. Three environmental protocols were used to condition the specimens: baseline, six months of indoor and outdoor weathering. To guarantee consistency and accuracy in measurements, both surface roughness and hardness samples were manufactured in compliance with ISO 48 − 4:2018. The impacts of weathering conditions and material groups were assessed using one-way and two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), with significance taken into consideration at P < 0.05. Both at baseline and following six months of indoor and outdoor weathering, the hardness test results revealed statistically significant differences (P < 0.001). At baseline, indoor, and outdoor weathering, surface roughness results showed non-significant changes across the groups (P > 0.05). It was concluded that the surface hardness considerably improved after six months of indoor and outdoor weathering, with Z004 showing the highest values. The 80H/20L formulation showed significantly more surface roughness after weathering, although it might still be sufficient for maxillofacial applications.
Source: Research Square
Institutions: Universiti Sains Malaysia, Middle Technical University
Language: English
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225797861