Physico-mechanical properties of a nanofilled glass ionomer cement

Background: The use of Glass ionomer cements (GIC) as restorative materials is beneficial due to fluoride release and ease of application. Strength and solubility are important properties that can affect the longevity of restorative materials in the oral environment. Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate compressive, diametral tensile strength and solubility of a nanofilled GIC (Ketac N100) compared to available GICs, Fuji IILC and Fuji IX. Material &Methods: Compressive and diametral tensile strength were tested by constructing 10 samples (6mm length x 4mm diameter) then tested as specified by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO 9917- 2003). Solubility was assessed by constructing five samples (20mm diameter x 1.5mm thick), then storing them in distilled water for 24 hours before testing. Solubility was measured by weighing the residue that remains of each material following water evaporation of a portion of the suspension solution and calculating solubility as the total amount of soluble component in ratio to the total initial weight. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukeys test (p≤0.05). Results: Compressive and diametral tensile strength of Ketac N100 was significantly lower than that of Fuji II LC (p<0.05). The 24 hour solubility of Ketac N100 was significantly higher than Fuji IX and Fuji II LC (p