Engineering and Technology Journal (Jul 2023)
The Influence of the Inclusion of Nano Ceramic Particles on the PMMA Composite Properties for Biomaterials Applications
Abstract
This study examines the effects of reinforcing PMMA acrylic resin with different Nanoparticle types: Silica (SiO2) (67.8nm), Titania (TiO2) (57.3nm), and Talc powders (TP) (80.1nm). This was done by using the ultrasonic mixing method for dispersing the nano-powder in the matrix and using them at three different proportions (0. 5, 1, and 1.5%) to improve the properties of PMMA composite materials for medical applications. The characteristic functional groups associated with Nano-ceramic particles and PMMA in the composite specimens were confirmed by FT-IR spectroscopy. Also, this research investigates some mechanical properties, including (tensile strength, compression strength, elastic modulus, hardness, and surface roughness), some physical properties (density and water absorption), and biological properties (antibacterial activity). The experimental work was performed on prepared specimens that may be employed for cartilaginous joint applications. The results revealed that all mechanical properties enhanced as the nanoparticles concentration was increased till it reached a maximum of 1.5%. The proportion of tensile strength and elastic modulus enhancement for 1.5% of (SiO2, TiO2, and Talc) is equal to (66.5%, 47.55% and 59.38%), (261.5, 315.38 and 388.4%), respectively. The compressive strength of composites increased by (49.3, 36.66, and 40.5%) for 1.5% (SiO2, TiO2, and Talc). The physical properties manifested that the increased content of reinforcing nanoparticles led to the raised water absorption, while the density values of PMMA nanocomposite decreased. Additionally, the biological results elucidated that the increased concentration led to the increased antibacterial activity of nanocomposite. Furthermore, the results concluded that adding 1.5% of SiO2 to a PMMA matrix improves the properties obtained.
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