A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

The Nanomechanical Performance and Water Uptake of a Flowable Short Fiber Composite: The Influence of Bulk and Layering Restorative Techniques




AuthorsTarjányi, Tamás; Jakab, András Gábor; Sámi, Márton; Bali, Krisztián; Rárosi, Ferenc; Jarábik, Maja Laura; Braunitzer, Gábor; Palkovics, Dániel; Lassila, Lippo; Lempel, Edina; Fráter, Márk; Garoushi, Sufyan

PublisherMDPI AG

Publication year2025

JournalPolymers

Journal name in sourcePolymers

Article number1553

Volume17

Issue11

eISSN2073-4360

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.3390/polym17111553

Web address https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17111553

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/492200606


Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the nanomechanical surface properties and water uptake of a flowable short-fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) using various restorative techniques in order to assess its potential as a standalone restorative material. Nanoindentation and compressive creep testing were employed to characterize material performance. Three resin composites were examined: a flowable SFRC (everX Flow), a bulk-fill particulate filler composite (PFC), and a conventional PFC. Five experimental groups were established based on the restorative technique: layered PFC, layered SFRC, bulk SFRC, bulk PFC, and a bi-structure combining SFRC and PFC. Ninety standardized specimens (n = 18/group) were fabricated. Static and creep nanoindentation tests were conducted to assess surface properties, and water uptake was measured over a 30-day period. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests. Nanoindentation revealed significant differences in hardness, with bulk PFC exhibiting the lowest values (p < 0.001). Creep testing indicated changes in modulus and viscosity following water storage. Notably, bulk SFRC showed the lowest water absorption (p < 0.001). Overall, bulk-applied SFRC demonstrated favorable nanomechanical properties and reduced water uptake, demonstrating its suitability as a standalone restorative material. Further clinical investigations are recommended to validate its long-term performance.


Downloadable publication

This is an electronic reprint of the original article.
This reprint may differ from the original in pagination and typographic detail. Please cite the original version.




Funding information in the publication
This work was supported by the Bolyai János Research Grant (BO/00283/24/5), funded by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences.


Last updated on 2025-05-06 at 14:16