Physical properties of stainless-steel and silver-reinforced glass-ionomer cements.

The purpose of this study was to compare specific physical properties of an experimental stainless-steel-reinforced glass-ionomer cement with those of two commercially available silver-reinforced cements. Properties evaluated were compressive and diametral tensile strengths (one and 24 h), percent solubility in 0.01 mol/L lactic acid over 23 h, and working and setting times. Cylindrical specimens 6 mm (diameter) x 12 mm were prepared and maintained in distilled water at 37 +/- 2 degrees C and then tested on an MTS mechanical testing machine with a cross-head displacement rate of 0.5 mm/min for the diametral tensile strength test and 1.0 mm/min for the compressive strength test. ANOVA and Tukey's Studentized Multiple Range Test indicated significant differences between the experimental and commercially available cements for both compressive and tensile strengths at one and 24 h (p less than 0.01). The experimental stainless-steel-reinforced cement appeared to be significantly stronger in both tensile and compressive strengths than either of the commercially available cements. Working and setting times--as well as acid solubility of the experimental cement--also compared favorably with those of the commercial cements. Results suggest that the stainless-steel-reinforced glass-ionomer cement possesses strength properties that should lead to a stronger, more fracture-resistant restorative filling material when compared with those presently available.