In vitro abrasion using an air-powder polishing device and its quantification by radiotracer measurement.

Objectives: This study was conducted to examine the assessment of abrasion of two different materials after neutron activation.

Methods: A fissure sealant material (Fissurit F/VOCO with a compressive strength of 235 MPa) and a glass ionomer cement (Aqua Ionofil/VOCO with a compressive strength of 170 MPa) were activated by irradiation with neutrons. Subsequent measurements of the full-energy-peak (FEP) (1368.55 keV of 24Na) were made of the sample materials before and after abrasion via exposure to the air-powder polishing to accurately describe substance loss.

Results: Abrasion varied more than three-fold between the two materials.

Significance: Neutron activation and radiotracer measurement allows the quantification of abrasion effects in different materials. In comparison with other current methods its use may allow a superior measurement accuracy and precision in determining the abraded mass.