The aim of this study was to evaluate the mechanical properties of engine-driven Nickel-Titanium instruments manufactured by different thermal treatments. In the first part of this study, 60 reciprocating instruments were used (n=20): Reciproc R25 (REC 25.08), Unicone L25 (UNC 25.06) e Prodesign R 25 (PDR 25.06). The cyclic flexural fatigue resistance was performed measuring the time to failure in an artificial stainless steel canal with a 60º angle and a 5 mm radius of curvature (n=10). The torsional test was performed according to ISO 3630-1, measuring the torque and angle of rotation at failure in the 3 mm from the tip portion (n=10). Additionally, the fractured surface of each instrument was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to assess the topographic features of the fractured surface. Data were analyzed using one was analysis of variance ANOVA and Tukey test, the level of significance was set at 5%. The results of the cyclic flexural fatigue showed that PDR 25.06 presented significantly higher values than the other groups (P<0.05). REC 25.08 showed higher fatigue resistance than UNC 25.06 (P<0.05). In relation to the torsional test, the PDR 25.06 presented the lowest torque load than REC 25.08 and UNC 25.06 (P<0.05). In addition, there was no significant difference between REC 25.08 and UNC 25.06 (P>0.05). The PDR 25.06 and UNC 25.06 showed higher angular rotation until fracture than REC 25.08 (P<0.05). No difference was found between PDR 25.06 and UNC 25.06. All the instruments showed typical topographic features of cyclic flexural and torsional fatigue. The second part of this study evaluated the cyclic flexural and torsional fatigue resistance of reciprocating instruments Reciproc Blue (RB 25.08), WaveOne Gold Primary (WOG 25.07) and Prodesign R 25 (PDR 25.06) (n=20). The cyclic flexural fatigue test was performed with the same previsoly described device, using a root curvature with 60º and a 5 mm radius (n=10) and the torsional test was performed according to ISO 3630-1 (n=10). The fractured surface of each instrument was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were analyzed using one was analysis of variance ANOVA and Tukey test, the level of significance was set at 5%. The results of the cyclic flexural fatigue test showed that PDR 25.06 presented significantly higher values than the other groups (P<0.05). RB 25.08 showed higher fatigue resistance than WOG 25.07 (P<0.05). The torsional test showed that PDR 25.06 had lowed torsional load (P<0.05). No difference was found between RB 25.08 and WOG 25.07 (P>0.05). In relation the angular rotation, the PDR 25.06 showed higher angular rotation values than RB 25.08 and WOG 25.07 (P<0.05). RB 25.08 presented higher angular values than WOG 25.07 (P<0.05). All the instruments showed typical topographic features of cyclic flexural and torsional fatigue. The third part of this study was to evaluate the torsional fatigue resistance of NiTi rotary glide path instruments. The torsional test was performed according to ISO 3630-1, measuring the torque and angle of rotation at failure in the 3 mm from the tip portion. A total of 56 glide path instruments were used (n=8): Logic 25.01 (LOG 25.01), Logic CM 25.01(LOG CM 25.01), Proglider 16.02 (PGD 16.02), Hyflex GPF 15.01, 15.02, 20.02 (HGPF) and Mtwo 10.04. The fractured surface of each instrument was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were analyzed using one was analysis of variance ANOVA and Tukey test, the level of significance was set at 5%. The results showed that LOG 25.01 had a significantly higher torsional load than the other groups (P<0.05). The PGD 16.02 had significantly difference in comparison with HGPF 15.01 and 15.02 (P<0.05). LOG CM 25.01 had higher torsional load than HGPF 15.01 and 15.02 (P<0.05). No difference was found among Mtwo 10.04, HGPG 15.01, 15.02 and 20.02. In relation the angular rotation, LOG CM 25.01 and HGPF 15.01 presented the highest values (P<0.05). PGD 16.02 had the lowest values (P<0.05) followed by Mtwo 10.04. LOG 25.01 had higher angle of rotation than PGD 16.02 and Mtwo 10.04 (P<0.05). All the instruments showed typical topographic features of torsional fatigue. / O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o comportamento mecânico de instrumentos mecanizados de Níquel-Titânio (NiTi) fabricados com diferentes tratamentos térmicos. Na primeira parte do estudo foram utilizados 60 instrumentos reciprocantes para a realização dos teste de fadiga cíclica flexural e torcional (n=20): Reciproc R25 (REC 25.08), Unicone L25 (UNC 25.06) e Prodesign R 25 (PDR 25.06). O teste de fadiga cíclica flexural foi realizado com o objetivo de mensurar o tempo para a fratura dos instrumentos em um canal artificial de aço inoxidável com curvatura com 60º de angulação e 5 mm de raio (n=10). Para o teste de torção, os 3 mm inicias das pontas dos instrumentos foram fixadas em um aparelho de torção (n=10), de acordo com a norma ISO 3630-1. Este teste foi realizado com o objetivo de mensurar o torque máximo e o ângulo de rotação suportado pelos instrumentos até sua fratura. Adicionalmente, todos os fragmentos dos instrumentos fraturados foram examinados em microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV) para avaliar as características topográficas da superfície da área da fratura. A análise-estatística foi realizada utilizando o teste de análise de variância com um fator ANOVA e teste de Tukey, o nível de significância foi de 5%. Os resultados de fadiga cíclica flexural demonstraram que o PDR 25.06 apresentou maior tempo para a fratura do que os outros grupos (P<0.05). O instrumento REC 25.08 apresentou maior resistência a fadiga cíclica flexural do que o UNC 25.06 (P<0.05). O teste de torção demonstrou que o PDR 25.06 apresentou significantemente menor resistência torcional do que o REC 25.08 e UNC 25.06 (P<0.05). Além disso, não houve diferença entre REC 25.08 e UNC 25.06. Com relação ao ângulo de rotação, o PDR 25.06 e UNC 25.06 apresentaram diferença significante quando comparado ao REC 25.08. Não houve diferença entre PDR 25.06 e UNC 25.06 (P>0.05). Todos os instrumentos apresentaram característica topográficas típicas de fadiga cíclica flexural e torcional. Na segunda parte deste estudo avaliou-se a fadiga cíclica flexural e torcional dos instrumentos reciprocantes Reciproc Blue R25 (RB 25.08), WaveOne Gold Primary (WOG 25.07) e Prodesign R 25 (PDR 25.06) (n=20). O teste de fadiga cíclica flexural foi realizado com dispositivo descrito anteriormente, utilizando curvaturas de 60º e 5 mm de raio (n=10). O teste de torção foi realizado de acordo com a norma ISO 3630-1 (n=10). Todos os fragmentos dos instrumentos fraturados foram examinados em microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV) para avaliar as características topográficas da superfície da área da fratura. A análise-estatística foi realizada utilizando o teste de análise de variância com um fator (ANOVA) e teste de Tukey, o nível de significância foi de 5%. Os resultados de fadiga cíclica flexural demonstraram que o PDR 25.06 apresentou a maior resistência a fadiga cíclica flexural do que dos outros grupos (P<0.05). O RB 25.08 apresentou maior tempo para à fratura do que o WOG 25.07 (P<0.05). O teste de torção, o PDR 25.06 apresentou a menor resistência à torção do que os outros grupos (P<0.05). Não houve diferença significante entre RB 25.08 e WOG 25.07 (P>0.05). Em relação ao ângulo de rotação, o PDR 25.06 apresentou maiores valores quando comparados com RB 25.08 e WOG 25.07. O RB 25.08 apresentou diferença significante quando comparado com WOG 25.07. Todos os instrumentos apresentaram características topográficas típicas de fadiga cíclica flexural e torcional. Na terceira parte deste estudo avaliou-se a resistência torcional de instrumentos empregados para patência do canal radicular, de acordo com a norma ISO 3630-1. Foram utilizados 56 instrumentos rotatórios (n=8): Logic 25.01 (LOG 25.01), Logic CM 25.01 (LOG CM 25.01), Proglider 16.02 (PGD 16.02), Hyflex GPF 15.01, 15.02, 20.02 (HGPF) e Mtwo 10.04. Os fragmentos dos instrumentos fraturados foram examinados em microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV) para avaliar as características topográficas da superfície da área da fratura. A análise-estatística foi realizada utilizando o teste de análise de variância com um fator ANOVA e teste de Tukey, o nível de significância foi de 5%. Os resultados demonstraram que o LOG 25.01 apresentou significantemente maior resistência torcional do que os demais grupos (P<0.05). O grupo da PGD 16.02 apresentou diferença significante quando comparado com HGPF 15.01 e 15.02 (P<0.05). O LOG CM 25.01 apresentou maior resistência torcional do que o grupo do HGPF 15.01 e 15.02 (P<0.05). Não houve diferença significante entre os intrumentos Mtwo 10.04 e HGPF 15.01, 15.02 e 20.02. Com relação ao ângulo de rotação, o LOG CM 25.01 e HGPF 15.01 apresentaram os maiores valores (P<0.05). O PGD 16.02 apresentou o menor valor de todos os grupos (P<0.05) seguido pelo Mtwo 10.04. O LOG 25.01 apresentou maiores ângulos de rotação do que o PGD 16.02 e Mtwo 10.04 (P<0.05). Todos os instrumentos apresentaram característica topográficas típicas de fadiga torcional. As características da secção transversal, tipo de núcleo, taper e o tratamento térmico possuem forte influência sobre as propriedades mecânicas dos instrumentos de NiTi. No entanto, o tratamento térmico é um dos fatores primordiais para maior flexibilidade dos instrumentos. O instrumento PDR 25.06 apresentou maior resistência à fadiga cíclica flexural e maior ângulo de rotação no teste de torção do que todos os outros instrumentos reciprocantes avaliados. No entanto, menor resistência torcional. Os intrumentos LOG 25.01 apresentaram maior resistência torcional e o LOG CM 25.01 maiores ângulos de rotação.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different endodontic irrigants on the cohesive and flexural strength of the root dentin. One hundred of bovine incisor roots were selected, instrumented and randomly divided into 10 experimental groups (n = 10), according to the irrigation solution used: Control - physiological solution; N1 - sodium hypochlorite 1.0%; N5 - sodium hypochlorite 5.25%; N1EDTA - sodium hypochlorite 1.0% associate to EDTA 17%; N5EDTA - sodium hypochlorite 5.25% associate to EDTA 17%; Sclx chlorhexidine gluconate solution 2.0%; Gclx - chlorhexidine gluconate gel 2.0%; SclxEDTA - chlorhexidine gluconate solution 2.0% associate to EDTA 17%; GclxEDTA - chlorhexidine gluconate gel 2.0% associate to EDTA 17% and EDTA - EDTA 17%. The roots were axially sectioned in two halves. Half of them were used for the microtensile cohesive strength test: six 1.0mm thick slices were trimmed to produce hourglass shaped samples with a test area of 1mm2. The other halves were used in a 3-point bend flexural strength by means of dentine bars with 1X1X12 mm. Each sample remained two hours in contact with the irrigant solutions, except for EDTA, which remained for five minutes. After irrigants treatment, samples were rinsed with distilled water, and tested. Specific devices for each test were used, in a universal testing machine with a load cell of 20Kgf, and a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/minute. Date were recorded and statistically analyzed with one-way ANOVA and Tukey test. Significant reduction in the ultimate cohesive strength and flexural strength was verified only for the groups that used sodium hypochlorite irrespective of the concentration and additional solution, differing significant from the group control. The use of chlorhexidine and EDTA separately did not cause alteration in the mechanical properties of root dentine. / O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar a influência de diferentes irrigantes endodônticos na resistência coesiva e flexural da dentina radicular. Cem raízes de incisivos bovinos foram selecionadas, instrumentadas e divididas aleatoriamente em 10 grupos experimentais (n= 10), de acordo com a substância irrigadora utilizada: Controle - solução fisiológica; N1 - hipoclorito de sódio a 1,0%; N5 - hipoclorito de sódio a 5,25% ; N1EDTA - hipoclorito de sódio a 1,0% associado à EDTA a 17%; N5EDTA - hipoclorito de sódio a 5,25% associado à EDTA a 17%; Sclx - solução de gluconato de clorexidina a 2,0%; Gclx - gel de gluconato clorexidina a 2,0%; SclxEDTA - solução de gluconato clorexidina 2,0% associado à EDTA a 17%; GclxEDTA - gel de gluconato clorexidina a 2,0% associado à EDTA a 17% e EDTA - EDTA a 17%. As raízes foram axialmente seccionadas em duas metades. Uma metade foi utilizada para ensaio de microtração, da qual foram obtidas seis fatias de 1,0mm de espessura que receberam constrições na face externa, determinando área de teste de 1mm2. A outra metade foi utilizada no ensaio de flexão de 3-pontos, da qual foi extraída uma barra de dentina com dimensões de 1X1X12 mm. Cada amostra permaneceu duas horas em contato com a substância irrigante endodôntica com exceção do EDTA, que atuou por cinco minutos. Após o tratamento com os irrigantes, procedeu-se a lavagem com água destilada, e em seguida executados os ensaios mecânicos. Foram utilizados dispositivos específicos para cada ensaio, acoplados à máquina de ensaio mecânico, utilizando célula de carga de 20Kgf, com velocidade de 0,5 mm/minuto até a fratura da amostra. Os dados obtidos foram submetidos à análise de variância e teste Tukey. Verificou-se redução significativa na resistência máxima coesiva e flexural apenas para os grupos que empregaram o hipoclorito de sódio independe da concentração e associação com outra substância, diferindo estatisticamente do grupo controle. O uso de clorexidina e EDTA isoladamente não alterou as propriedades mecânicas da dentina radicular. / Mestre em Odontologia

Placas oclusais são dispositivos intraorais utilizados no manejo de pacientes que apresentam desordens do sono, migrânia do tipo tensional e outros. No entanto são os cirurgiões dentistas que predominantemente utilizam as placas oclusais como tratamento do equilíbrio das arcadas dentárias nas disfunções temporomandibulares, prevenção de desgaste dental em pacientes com hábitos parafuncionais e na prevenção de traumas em atletas. Vários métodos têm sido empregados para reforçar resinas acrílicas, como reforço metálico e atualmente a incorporação de diferentes tipos de fibras tais como: carbono, polietileno e vidro. Contudo a adição de fibras de vidro com partículas menores em algumas propriedades mecânicas ainda permanecem desconhecidas. Objetivo: O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar algumas propriedades mecânicas como a rugosidade de superfície, microdureza, módulo de elasticidade e resistência flexural em resinas acrílicas após a incorporação de fibras de vidro particuladas pré silanizadas. Material e método: Para avaliação das propriedades foram confeccionados vinte e quatro corpos de prova (65 x 10 x 3 mm) de cada marca comercial de resina acrílica, utilizadas para confecção de placas oclusais, Vipi Flash (autopolimerizável), Vipi Wave (termopolimerizável por calor de microondas), Vipi Crill, Lucitone e QC-20 (termopolimerizáveis por calor de banho de água), sendo doze corpos-de-prova controles, e doze experimentais, com adição de 10% em peso de fibras de vidro particuladas (Reforplás S/A, São Paulo, SP, Brasil). Após a realização do acabamento superficial dos corpos de prova com lixas de carborundum e feltros era realizada a avaliação da rugosidade superficial em rugosímetro (Mitutoyo®) com três leituras ao longo dos corpos-de-prova, a microdureza Vickers era analisada em um microdurômetro (Micro Hardness Tester, Shimadzu, Japan) com cinco mensurações em cada corpo-de-prova, e para avaliar os ensaios de resistência flexural e módulo de elasticidade os corpos-de-prova foram avaliados por meio uma máquina de ensaios universal (Emic DL 2000®, Emic, São José dos Pinhais, PR, Brasil), com velocidade de 5mm/min. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente, usando testes paramétricos e não paramétricos, de acordo com a distribuição da amostra. Resultados: As médias e desvios padrões do teste de rugosidade superficial em Ra foram Vipi Flash sem fibra (0,10 ± 0,03); Vipi Flash com fibra (0,12 ± 0,01); Vipi Wave sem fibra (0,16 ± 0,02); Vipi Wave com fibra (0,13 ± 0,02); Vipi Cril sem fibra (0,12 ± 0,03); Vipi Crill com fibra (0,15 ± 0,03); Lucitone sem fibra (0,10 ± 0,02); Lucitone com fibra (0,09 ± 0,04); QC-20 sem fibra (0,11 ± 0,02) e QC-20 com fibra (0,18 ± 0,03). As médias e desvios-padrão ao teste de microdureza Knoop com relação às marcas comerciais foram: Vipi Flash sem fibra (15,35 ± 0,3); Vipi Flash com fibra (15,51 ± 0,4); Vipi Wave sem fibra (16,60 ± 0,8); Vipi Wave com fibra (17,25 ± 0,9); Vipi Cril sem fibra (17,78 ± 2,27); Vipi Crill com fibra (18,02 ± 1,0); Lucitone sem fibra (15,72 ± 0,3); Lucitone com fibra (16,69 ± 0,6); QC-20 sem fibra (15,91 ± 0,4) e QC-20 com fibra (15,63 ± 0,2). As médias e desvios-padrão ao teste de módulo de elasticidade foram: Vipi Flash sem fibra (2952,76 ± 292,12); Vipi Flash com fibra (3373,49 ± 403,76); Vipi Wave sem fibra (2511,69 ± 304,09); Vipi Wave com fibra (3225,01 ± 248,66); Vipi Cril sem fibra (2745,61± 288,86); Vipi Crill com fibra (3671,67 ± 329,91); Lucitone sem fibra (1904,53 ± 149,05); Lucitone com fibra (3056,87 ± 126,11); QC-20 sem fibra (1913,86 ± 147,80) e QC-20 com fibra (2858,32 ± 185,26). As médias e desvios-padrão ao teste de resistência flexural foram Vipi Flash sem fibra (81,62 ± 4,82); Vipi Flash com fibra (83,98 ± 4,98); Vipi Wave sem fibra (83,52 ± 8,79); Vipi Wave com fibra (88,98± 8,47); Vipi Cril sem fibra (64,17± 5,46); Vipi Crill com fibra (93,37 ± 9,97); Lucitone sem fibra (74,71± 9,43); Lucitone com fibra (87,29 ± 4,73); QC-20 sem fibra (75,80 ± 8,82) e QC-20 com fibra (81,67± 12,97). Conclusão: Conclui-se que a incorporação de fibras provocou alterações em praticamente todas as propriedades analisadas, sendo, portanto facilmente utilizável como um reforço adicional às resinas acrílicas. Com relação à dureza superficial as resinas acrílicas termopolimerizável por banho de água e termopolimerizável por calor de microondas apresentaram maiores valores quando comparados com a resina acrílica autopolimerizável. Além disso, a adição de fibras de vidro particuladas aumentou os valores de rugosidade de algumas resinas acrílicas Vipi Crill, Vipi Flash e Vipi Wave e se manteve constante nas resinas Lucitone e QC-20. A adição de fibra de vidro não aumentou significantemente a microdureza Knoop nos grupos em estudo. Com relação à resistência flexural as fibras de vidro particuladas aumentaram significantemente todos os valores, assim como o módulo de elasticidade das resinas acrílicas reforçadas pela adição de fibras de vidro. / Intraoral Occlusal splints are devices used in the management of patients with sleep disorders, migraine type tension and others. But dentists who are predominantly using the plates as a treatment of occlusal balance of the dental arches in temporomandibular disorders, prevention of tooth wear in patients with habits and prevention of injuries in athletes. Several methods have been used to strengthen acrylic resins, such as metal reinforcement and are currently incorporating different types of fibers such as carbon, polyethylene and glass. However the addition of glass fibers with smaller particles on mechanical properties are still unknown. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate some mechanical properties such as surface roughness, hardness, elastic modulus and flexural strength in acrylic resins after the incorporation of glass fiber particulate pre silanized. Methods: To evaluate the properties were made twenty-four specimens (65 x 10 x 3 mm) of each brand of acrylic resin, used for fabrication of occlusal splints, Vipi Flash (self-curing), Vipi Wave (by thermo microwave heat), Vipi CRILL, Lucitone and QC-20 (thermo heat water bath), with twelve specimes controls, and twelve experimental, with the addition of 10 wt% glass fiber particulate (Reforplás S / A, São Paulo, Brazil). After completion of the roughness of the specimens with grit carborundum and felt it was evaluated the surface roughness on roughness tester (Mitutoyo ®) with three readings over the specimes, the microhardness was examined with a hardness ( Micro Hardness Tester, Shimadzu, Japan) with five measurements in each specime, and evaluate the tests for flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of the specimes was evaluated using a universal testing machine (Emic DL 2000 ®, Emic, São José dos Pinhais, PR, Brazil), with speed 5mm/min. The data were statistically analyzed using parametric and nonparametric tests, according to the sample distribution. Results: The mean and standard deviation of the test surface roughness were Vipi Flash without fiber (0.10 ± 0.03); Flash Vipi with fiber (0.12 ± 0.01); Vipi Wave without fiber (0, 16 ± 0.02); Vipi Wave with fiber (0.13 ± 0.02); Vipi Cril without fiber (0.12 ± 0.03); Vipi CRILL with fiber (0.15 ± 0.03); Lucitone without fiber (0.10 ± 0.02); Lucitone with fiber (0.09 ± 0.04), QC-20 fiber without (0.11 ± 0.02) and QC-20 with fiber (0.18 ± 0.03). Means and standard deviations for Knoop microhardness test with respect to trademarks were Vipi Flash without fiber (15.35 ± 0.3); Flash Vipi with fiber (15.51 ± 0.4); Vipi Wave without fiber (16.60 ± 0.8); Vipi Wave with fiber (17.25 ± 0.9); Vipi Cril without fiber (17.78 ± 2.27); Vipi CRILL with fiber (18.02 ± 1.0 ); Lucitone without fiber (15.72 ± 0.3); Lucitone with fiber (16.69 ± 0.6), QC-20 without fiber (15.91 ± 0.4) and QC-20 with fiber (15 , 63 ± 0.2). Means and standard deviations to test elastic modulus were Vipi Flash without fiber (2952.76 ± 292.12); Flash Vipi with fiber (3373.49 ± 403.76); Vipi Wave without fiber (2511.69 ± 304.09); Vipi Wave with fiber (3225.01 ± 248.66); Vipi Cril without fiber (2745.61 ± 288.86); Vipi CRILL with fiber (3671.67 ± 329.91); Lucitone without fiber (1904.53 ± 149.05); Lucitone with fiber (3056.87 ± 126.11), QC-20 without fiber (1913.86 ± 147.80) and QC-20 with fiber (2858.32 ± 185 26). Means and standard deviations for flexural strength were Vipi Flash without fiber (81.62 ± 4.82); Flash Vipi with fiber (83.98 ± 4.98); Vipi Wave without fiber (83.52 ± 8 , 79); Vipi Wave with fiber (88.98 ± 8.47); Vipi Cril without fiber (64.17 ± 5.46); Vipi CRILL with fiber (93.37 ± 9.97); Lucitone without fiber ( 74.71 ± 9.43); Lucitone with fiber (87.29 ± 4.73), QC-20 without fiber (75.80 ± 8.82) and QC-20 with fiber (81.67 ± 12.97). Conclusion: the conclusion is that the incorporation of fibers resulted in changes in almost all properties examined, and thus easily used as an additional reinforcement for acrylic resins. With respect to the surface roughness of acrylic resins by thermo water bath and microwave thermo heat showed higher values when compared with acrylic resin. Moreover, the addition of glass fiber particulate increased the roughness values of some acrylic resins Vipi CRILL, Vipi Flash and Vipi Wave and remained constant in the resins Lucitone and QC-20. The addition of glass fiber does not increase significantly the microhardness in the groups. With respect to flexural strength glass fiber particulate significantly increased all values, as well as the modulus of acrylic resin reinforced by the addition of glass fibers.

Besides the differences in chemical composition, which has a direct influence on the mechanical properties of restorative materials, the various methods of evaluation have generated different results that make it difficult any comparison among their properties. The aim of this study was to determine and compare the flexural strength (FS) of four restorative materials and the influence of the measurement method in such property. Twelve groups (n=15) were obtained and each tested material (Filtek Z350, Epricord, Super Porcelain EX-3 and IPS Empress 2) was submitted to three mechanical tests to assess their FS. For three and four-point bending tests rectangular beams (25x2x2 mm) was used and disc-shaped (12x1,2 mm) was used in the biaxial test. Specimens were submitted to load at the 1 mm/min speed in an EMIC machine, the analysis of stress distribution was performed by 3D finite element analysis and fracture site was visually evaluated. Mean values of FS were obtained from the fracture load of the samples and subjected to statistical analysis. Two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test indicated significant differences between the materials with higher values for IPS Empress 2 (a), followed by Filtek Z350 (b) in all methods, followed by Super Porcelain EX-3 (c) and Epricord (d) in two of three tests. Three-point bending and biaxial tests showed significantly higher values (A), while the four-point bending test was inferior (B). Fracture modes observed correlated with the finite element analysis. Results indicated reliability of all methods, supported by reasonably low coefficients of variation and the highest values of the materials further strengthened in its composition. However, due to lower sensitivity, lower reproducibility (higher coefficient of variation) and greater difficulty of implementation, the four-point bending test seems to be less suitable. / Além das diferenças na composição química, que tem influência direta nas propriedades mecânicas dos materiais restauradores, os diversos métodos de avaliação têm gerado diferentes resultados que dificultam qualquer comparação entre as propriedades dos materiais. O objetivo desse trabalho foi determinar e comparar a resistência flexural (RF) de quatro materiais restauradores e a influência do método na mensuração. Foram obtidos 12 grupos (n=15) sendo que cada material (Filtek Z350, Epricord, Super Porcelain EX-3, e IPS Empress 2) foi submetido a três ensaios de avaliação da RF. Para os ensaios de três e quatro pontos foram obtidas amostras em forma de barras retangulares (25x2x2 mm) e para o biaxial, amostras em forma de disco (12x1,2 mm). Os ensaios foram realizados em máquina EMIC à velocidade de 1 mm/min, a análise da distribuição de tensões foi realizada por elementos finitos em 3D e o local da fratura foi visualmente avaliado. Os valores médios de RF foram obtidos a partir da carga de fratura das amostras e submetidos à análise estatística. Two way ANOVA e teste de Tukey indicaram diferenças significativas entre os materiais com maiores valores para o IPS Empress 2 (a), seguido da resina Filtek Z350 (b) em todos os métodos, seguidos de Super Porcelain EX-3 (c) e Epricord (d) em dois dos três ensaios. Os ensaios de três pontos e biaxial apresentaram valores significativamente maiores (A), enquanto que o de quatro pontos apresentou resultados inferiores (B). Os padrões de fratura observados estão correlacionados com a análise de elementos finitos. Os resultados indicaram confiabilidade de todos os métodos, suportada pelos coeficientes de variação razoavelmente baixos e pelos maiores valores dos materiais mais reforçados em sua composição. Porém, devido a menor sensibilidade, menor reprodutibilidade (maior coeficiente de variação) e maior dificuldade de execução, o ensaio flexural de quatro pontos parece ser o menor indicado. / Mestre em Odontologia

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a resistência à fadiga cíclica flexural de instrumentos rotatórios de níquel-titânio de número 25, conicidade 0,04 e 25 mm de comprimento (K3, SybronEndo), submetidos a variados torques de acionamento e repetidos ciclos de usos em canais simulados, valendo-se de dispositivo apropriado para ensaios dinâmicos. Procurou-se determinar se, além do fator de variação número de uso, há influência relacionada com o torque e, ainda, a possibilidade de interação entre número de uso e torque. Valendo-se motor elétrico acionado à velocidade de 300 rpm foram instrumentados 320 canais simulados, utilizado-se 80 instrumentos divididos em 4 grupos com 20 espécimes cada, de acordo com os torques (0,5 Ncm, 1,0 Ncm, 2,0 Ncm e 6,0 Ncm) a que seriam submetidos. Cada grupo foi subdividido em 4 subgrupos com 5 espécimes, de acordo com o número de usos (1, 3, 5 e 7 ciclos de usos). Todos os instrumentos foram submetidos a ensaio de fadiga cíclica flexural que foi realizado num dispositivo que permitia ao instrumento girar livremente, reproduzindo a instrumentação rotatória num canal curvo (40º e raio de curvatura de 5 mm), simulando o movimento de pecking, onde o instrumento deslizava pelo sulco criado no anel de aço temperado. Foi utilizada peça de mão com contra-ângulo redutor de 16:1, acionado por motor elétrico na velocidade de 300 rpm e torque idêntico ao empregado durante a fase de preparo dos canais simulados. A fratura do instrumento era facilmente detectada pelo sensor, e neste momento o contador e o temporizador paravam imediatamente. Os dados registrados no contador e no temporizador foram tranformados em segundos. Para a avaliação estatística empregou-se ANOVA e o teste t de Student (p<0,01). No que diz respeito ao fator de variação número de uso, não houve diferença estatística significante, enquanto as comparações feitas com o torque de 6,0 Ncm apresentaram valores de t calculado altamente significativo, com p < 0,01. Também não ocorreu interação significante entre os fatores de variação número de usos e torque. Baseado nos resultados deste estudo pode-se concluir que o torque afetou a resistência à fadiga cíclica flexural dos instrumentos rotatórios de NiTi, sendo menor naqueles submetidos à torque elevado, enquanto o número de usos em até 7 vezes não afetou . / The aim of the present study was to evaluate the flexural cyclic fatigue resistance of nickel-titanium rotary instruments, number 25, taper 0,04, and length of 25mm (K3, SybronEndo), when submitted to several torque values and number of uses in simulated canal blocks, by using devices appropriated for dynamic tests. It was tried to detect whether, in addition to the factor number of uses, there would be an influence related to torque, or even the possibility of an interaction between number of uses and torque. The data was collected from 320 simulated canals that were prepared, driven by an electrical motor at 300 rpm, using 80 instruments divided in 4 groups of 20 sample each, based on torque values (0,5 Ncm, 1,0 Ncm, 2,0 Ncm e 6,0 Ncm). Each group was randomly divided in 4 subgroups of 5 samples each, according to the number of uses (1, 3, 5 and 7 cycles). All files were submitted to flexural cyclic fatigue test realized in a device that allows the instrument to freely rotate, reproducing the movement of an instrument rotating in a curved canal (40º angle and 5 mm of radius), simulating the pecking movement, where the instrument slide over the groove created in the hardened steel. An electric motor hand-piece was used with a contra-angle 16:1 reduction set at 300 rpm and torque value identical to that used during preparation of simulated canals. The fracture of the instrument was easily detected at moment which the counter and the timer were immediately stopped. Data collected by the counter and the timer were converted in seconds and analysed by ANOVA and t Student test (p<0.01). In regards to the number of uses factor, there was not a statistically significant difference, while comparisons made with torque value set at 6,0 Ncm showed t values significantly high, with p<0.01. It was not seen any interaction between both variables, number of uses and torque. Based on the results of this investigation, it can be concluded that torque affected the resistance to flexural cyclic fatigue of nickel-titanium rotary instruments, being low on those tested at high torque value; while the factor number of uses up to 7 times did not affect the results.

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) / Background: Interim restoration for a lost anterior tooth is often needed for temporary esthetic and functional purposes. Materials for interim restorations usually have less strength than ceramic or gold and can suffer from fracture. Several approaches have been proposed to reinforce interim restorations, among which fiber reinforcement has been regarded as one of the most effective methods. However, some studies have found that the limitation of this method is the poor polymerization between the fibers and the composite resin, which can cause debonding and failure. 64 Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of different polymerization methods as well as fiber types on the mechanical behavior of fiberreinforced composite resin. Material and Methods: A 0.2-mm thick fiber layer from strip fibers or mesh fibers embedded in uncured monomers w as fabricated with polymerization (two-step method) or without polymerization (one-step method), on top of which a 1.8-mm composite layer was added to make a bar-shape sample, followed by a final polymerization. Seventy-five specimens were fabricated and divided into one control group and four experimental groups (n=15), according to the type of glass fiber (strip or mesh) and polymerization methods (one-step or two-step). Specimens were tested for flexural strength, flexural modulus, and microhardness. The failure modes of specimens were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: The fiber types showed significant effect on the flexural strength of test specimens (F = 469.48; p < 0.05), but the polymerization methods had no significant effect (F = 0.05; p = 0.82). The interaction between these two variables was not significant (F = 1.73; p = 0.19). In addition, both fiber types and polymerization steps affected the flexural modulus of test specimens (F = 9.71; p < 0.05 for fiber type, and F = 12.17; p < 0.05 for polymerization method). However, the interaction between these two variables was not significant (F = 0.40; p = 0.53). Both fiber types and polymerization steps affected the Knoop hardness number of test specimens (F = 5.73; p < 0.05 for polymerization method. and F = 349.99; p < 0.05 for fiber type) and the interaction between these two variables was also significant (F = 5.73; p < 0.05). SEM images revealed the failure mode tended to become repairable while fiber reinforcement was 65 existed. However, different polymerization methods did not change the failure mode. Conclusion: The strip fibers showed better mechanical behavior than mesh fibers and were suggested for use in composite resin reinforcement. However, different polymerization methods did not have significant effect on the strength and the failure mode of fiber-reinforced composite

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI)

This dissertation presents a comprehensive investigation into the mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC), focusing on fracture and flexural toughness properties, the impact of fiber orientation and distribution, and the evaluation of flexural models for predicting the behavior of functionally graded FRC. It embarks on a critical investigation aimed at bridging a significant gap in the understanding of FRC materials' behavior, particularly in terms of fracture and flexural performance. Across five distinct manuscripts, this work employs a variety of experimental methodologies, including three-point bend tests, four-point bend tests, digital image correlation, X-ray computed tomography, and the implementation of the two parameter fracture model and then size effect fracture method to explore the effects of different casting techniques – namely, conventional casting and pump-driven extrusion – on the performance of FRC. The core hypothesis tested throughout these studies suggests that the extrusion process, by aligning fibers parallel to tensile stresses, significantly enhances the concrete's ductility, post-peak behavior, and overall fracture and flexural properties. This hypothesis was corroborated across various experiments, which demonstrated that fiber alignment via extrusion not only enhances the concrete's mechanical properties but also leads to more effective crack propagation control, increased toughness, and enhanced residual strengths. The research encompasses a series of systematic investigations into the effects of fiber alignment on the mechanical properties of FRC, revealing that the extrusion process significantly enhances fracture and flexural properties and maintains residual strength after peak stress. Utilizing both extrusion-based and conventional casting methods with varying dosages of polyvinyl alcohol fibers, the study demonstrates notable improvements in fracture properties, deflection at failure, and equivalent flexural strength ratio for extrusion-based specimens compared to their conventionally cast counterparts. Moreover, the dissertation explores the impact of casting methods and fiber orientation on fracture energy, offering a size-dependent improvement in extrusion-based methods. The strategic distribution of steel fibers, employing an innovative targeted fiber injection for creating Functionally Graded FRC (FG-FRC), is shown to significantly enhance the structural integrity and resilience of the material. The analysis of flexural models applied to FG-FRC specimens, proposing a novel functionally graded factor to improve model predictability, further advances the understanding of the predictability and reliability of these models in assessing FRC's structural behavior. This dissertation advances academic knowledge in the field of FRC casting and offers significant implications for the construction industry, demonstrating a profound understanding of the challenges and opportunities in extrusion-based FRC casting. Through its innovative approach and detailed investigations, this work contributes significantly to the advancement of the FRC casting field, paving the way for the development of more resilient and efficient construction materials. / Doctor of Philosophy / This research explores the enhancement of concrete's strength and flexibility through the incorporation of individual fibers, with a special focus on the integration and alignment of these fibers. The study examines how concrete can be made more resilient by mixing in fibers in specific ways. A variety of tests, including bending beams and employing advanced imaging techniques, were conducted to observe the effects of mixing fibers using traditional methods versus a novel extrusion-based technique that aligns the fibers in the desired direction in the concrete. The research hypothesized that this innovative alignment method would improve the concrete's ductility and enhance its ability to resist crack propagation. The findings confirmed this hypothesis, revealing that aligned fibers significantly improve concrete's bending capacity, reduce sensitivity to cracking, and retain residual strength even after cracking. Further investigation into varying methods of fiber addition, such as a targeted approach for placing fibers in strategic locations, demonstrated a marked enhancement in the material's ductility. Additionally, the study evaluated mathematical models for predicting the behavior of fiber-reinforced concrete, aiming to improve the understanding and reliability of these models for practical construction applications. In short, the research underscores that adjusting the method of fiber integration into concrete can lead to the development of structures that are both stronger and more durable. This advancement holds promising implications for the future of construction, offering pathways to create more resilient and efficient building materials.

Doctor of Philosophy / Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering / Liang-Wu Cai / X. J. Xin / Thin walled structures such as plates and shells have application in many fields of engineering because these structures are light weight and can support large loads when designed suitably. In real world, loads may cause these structures to vibrate which can be undesirable causing fatigue and failure of the structure. Such undesirable vibrations need to be reduced or eliminated. In this work, analytical studies of flexural wave propagation for idealized geometries are conducted and finite element method (FEM) is used to explore the effects of composite panel designs of finite size for the reduction of vibration transmission. In the analytical studies, the influence of the material properties on the reflection and transmission characteristics are explored for an infinite bi-material plate, and infinite plate with a strip inhomogeneity. In the analytical study of an infinite thin plate with a solid circular inclusion, the far and near field scattering characteristics are explored for different frequencies and material properties. All the analytical studies presented here and reported in the literature consider infinite plates to characterize the flexural wave propagation. Obtaining closed form solutions to characterize the flexural wave propagation in a finite plate with inclusions is mathematically difficult process. So, FEM is used to explore the composite panel designs. The understanding gained about the material properties influence on the flexural wave propagation from analytical studies helped with the choice of materials for FEM simulations. The concept of phononic crystals is applied to define the design variations that are effective in suppressing vibration transmission. Various design configurations are explored to study the effects of various parameters like scatterer’s material properties, geometry and spatial pattern. Based on the knowledge gained through a systematic parametric study, a final design of the composite sandwich panel is proposed with an optimum set of parameters to achieve the best vibration reduction. This is the first study focused on reducing vibration and wave transmission in composite rotorcraft fuselage panels incorporating the concept of phononic crystals. The optimum sandwich panel design achieved 98% vibration transmission reduction at the frequency of interest of 3000 Hz.

The final thesis consists of three main parts, each covering a certain aspect of investigation. First chapter presents an extensive literature review, covering such aspects as: application of FRP (fiber reinforced polymer) materials in modern-day civil engineering, characteristics of FRP reinforcement for reinforced concrete structures, advantages and drawbacks of FRP rebars compared to traditional materials, peculiarities of flexural behavior of FRP reinforced members, review of existing empirical stress-strain calculation algorithms and building codes for concrete members reinforced with FRP. Second part aims at presenting gathered experimental data consisting of 51 FRP reinforced flexural members under 4 point bending scheme. Taking into account such parameters as reinforcement ratio, load intensity and elasticity modulus of FRP reinforcement, statistical analysis on a number of calculation algorithms and building codes is performed in order to evaluate their credibility and reliability for use in real-world structures. The final part of the work presents a Simplified Discrete Crack model developed in VGTU Department of Bridges and Special Structures. The model is applied for a series of collected beams. The results are compared with theoretical predictions made by different design codes and experimental values. The final thesis consists of: 90 pages of text (without appendixes), 46 pictures, 17 tables. 3 appendixes are included. Literature list consisting of 82... [to full text] / Baigiamąjį magistro darbą sudaro trys pagrindinės dalys. Pirmajame skyriuje pateikiama literatūros apžvalga, kurioje nagrinėjamos temos susijusios su pluoštinės armatūros panaudojimu lenkiamiems betoniniams elementams. Apžvelgiamos tokių elementų panaudojimo galimybės, privalumai ir trūkumai, deformacijų skaičiavimo metodai bei matematiniai modeliai. Antrajame skyriuje nagrinėjama surinkta polimerine armatūra armuotų sijų eksperimentinių duomenų imtis. Siekiant įvertinti skirtingų skaičiavimo metodų patikimumą ir pritaikomumą ne plienine armatūra armuotiems elementams, atliekama lyginamoji statistinė analizė. Jos metu įvertinama armavimo procento, apkrovimo lygio bei pluoštinės armatūros tamprumo modulio įtaka. Trečiojoje darbo dalyje surinktai eksperimentinių duomenų imčiai pritaikytas VGTU Tiltų ir Specialiųjų Statinių Katedroje sukurtas Diskrečiųjų plyšių modelis. Gautos priklausomybės palygintos su kitų skaičiavimo normų rezultatais bei eksperimentiniais duomenimis. Gauti rezultatai parodė, kad pritaikius tikslesnius praslydimo bei armatūros ir betono sąveikos ruožuose tarp plyšių modelius, diskrečiųjų plyšių modelis gali būti sėkmingai taikomas polimerine armatūra armuotų elementų elgsenai prognozuoti.