Abstract
The microstructural evolution during the polymerization process critically influences the mechanical properties. The present study investigates the influence of curing parameters, i.e., temperature, time, and bench-pressing pressure, on the microstructural evolution and the degree of conversion, which significantly affect the mechanical properties of heat-cured PMMA denture base polymers. Nanoindentation results reveal that the mechanical properties improve considerably with higher curing temperature and longer curing time, as evidenced by an 88% increase in Young’s modulus and a four times increase in hardness. The optical photomicrographs, XRD, and Raman spectroscopy elucidate the effect of systematic variations in curing parameters in the microstructure. The 12-month aging study reveals an increment of 5-10% in the mechanical properties, which is not changing after immersing in artificial saliva (pH 6.8) for 14 days. This comprehensive analysis provides insight into the microstructure-mechanical property correlation, which is important in optimizing PMMA denture base fabrication to enhance clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction.
