IADR Abstract Archives
Properties of clinker and alkali-activated aluminosilicates for experimental restorative cements
Objectives: To evaluate the physical and biological properties of Kenyan Portland cement clinker and alkali-activated aluminosilicates (geopolymers) with potential for use in developing an experimental restorative dental cement for atraumatic restorative treatment (ART).
Methods: Clinker samples were obtained from three production companies in Kenya while geopolymers were synthesized through alkali activation of aluminosilicates used as raw materials for clinker production. Properties were compared to mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). X-ray fluorescence and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy were used for compositional and elemental analysis. Fluoride ion selective electrode was used for fluoride ion measurements. Primary fibroblasts and enzyme assays were used for biocompatibility assessment. The setting time of experimental cements, prepared by mixing the clinker or synthetic geopolymers with poly (acrylic acid) and tartaric acid, was evaluated.
Results: Kenyan Portland cement clinker was found to have a similar composition to MTA. Their physical and biological properties were also similar. Addition of poly (acrylic acid) and tartaric acid to the clinker or synthetic geopolymer yielded a cement mass with reasonable setting time.
Conclusions: In light of the imminent phase-down of dental amalgam, low- and middle-income countries should consider translational science in seeking affordable, alternative materials. These experimental cements may provide a viable solution to reduce the burden of dental caries in under-privileged settings through minimally invasive, low cost techniques such as ART. Further investigations of their properties are necessary.
Methods: Clinker samples were obtained from three production companies in Kenya while geopolymers were synthesized through alkali activation of aluminosilicates used as raw materials for clinker production. Properties were compared to mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). X-ray fluorescence and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy were used for compositional and elemental analysis. Fluoride ion selective electrode was used for fluoride ion measurements. Primary fibroblasts and enzyme assays were used for biocompatibility assessment. The setting time of experimental cements, prepared by mixing the clinker or synthetic geopolymers with poly (acrylic acid) and tartaric acid, was evaluated.
Results: Kenyan Portland cement clinker was found to have a similar composition to MTA. Their physical and biological properties were also similar. Addition of poly (acrylic acid) and tartaric acid to the clinker or synthetic geopolymer yielded a cement mass with reasonable setting time.
Conclusions: In light of the imminent phase-down of dental amalgam, low- and middle-income countries should consider translational science in seeking affordable, alternative materials. These experimental cements may provide a viable solution to reduce the burden of dental caries in under-privileged settings through minimally invasive, low cost techniques such as ART. Further investigations of their properties are necessary.