Effect of titania addition and sintering temperature on the microstructure, optical, mechanical and biological properties of the Y-TZP/TiO composite.

Objective: The aims of this study were: 1) to evaluate the effect of sintering temperature on microstructure, density and flexural strength of a 3Y-TZP/TiO composite containing 12.5 wt% of TiO compared to 3Y-TZP specimens (control); 2) to compare 3Y-TZP with the experimental 3Y-TZP/TiO composite, both sintered at 1400 °C, with respect to the following parameters: optical properties, characteristic strength, Weibull modulus, fatigue behavior, induction of osteoblasts proliferation and differentiation (mineralization nodules formation).

Methods: The 3Y-TZP and 3Y-TZP/TiO powders were uniaxially pressed and sintered at 1200 °C, 1300 °C, 1400 °C or 1500 °C for one hour in a furnace. The microstructural analysis consisted of X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The density was measured by the Archimedes' principle and the flexural strength was obtained by the biaxial flexure test. The optical properties were measured using a spectrophotometer operating in the visible light wavelength range. The step-stress accelerated life testing was performed by the pneumatic mechanical cycler and the biological behavior achieved by using osteoblast-like cells (Osteo-1 cell line).

Results: Tetragonal zirconia was identified in all groups and cubic zirconia was identified only at 3Y-TZP group. The addition of TiO decreased the values of density and flexural strength of the composite 3Y-TZP/TiO in relation to 3Y-TZP regardless of the sintering temperature. The color difference between the two materials was not significant regarding L*a*b* parameters. The composite showed higher probability of failure, and induced higher proliferation and differentiation than control.

Significance: The composite developed have good aesthetic and biologics properties. However, its microstructure and mechanical properties need to be improved for future dental implant applications.