Comparative evaluation of multiwall carbon nanofillers and graphene on the impact strength and flexural strength of auto polymerized acrylic resin

Context: Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is widely used for fabrication of removable dental prosthesis, but it is still insufficient to fulfil the mechanical requirements for dental applications. Aims: Comparative evaluation of addition of carbon nano fillers and graphene and its effect on impact strength and flexural strength of Autopolymerized Acrylic resin. - an in vitro study Methods and Materials: Characterisation of carbon nanofillers (MWCNTs) and graphene were done to check the purity, diameter and size using FT RAMAN & FESEM. Monomer without microaddition acted as control group. Nanofillers by weight were added in monomer in different percentages 0.50% by weight for group b and group c and combination of 0.25% by weight of graphene and 0.25% by weight of carbon for group d. Nanofillers were subjected to probe sonification apparatus for uniform dispersion. Polymer and monomer containing nanofillers were mixed according to the groups and packed in the mold and processed according to conventional method.80 specimens were fabricated and divided into four groups according to the test.The retrieved specimens were kept in artificial saliva before testing. Universal maching and izod impact testing machine was used to check impact and flexural strength. Statistical analysis used: Kruskall Wallis ANOVA and Mann Whitney test. Results: 0.5% by weight of carbon nanofillers showed highest flexural and impact strength of PMMA resin followed by graphene and by combination of 0.25% by weight of carbon and0.25% by weight of graphene nanofillers.