The Influence of Thickness on the Mechanical Behaviors of 3D Printing Resins for Orthodontic Retainers

This study aimed to evaluate the mechanical behaviors of thermoformed and 3D-printed retainers with different thicknesses. Thermoformed retainers (Duran) and 3D-printed retainers (Dental LT Clear V2 and NextDent Ortho Flex) were fabricated at thicknesses of 0.5, 0.75, and 1 mm. Five samples of each material were subjected to compression, tensile, and flexural testing with the universal testing machine (Instron Ltd., Buckinghamshire, England). The results revealed that the mechanical behaviors were significantly influenced by thickness in each type of material. The increased thickness tended to increase strength and modulus in all three tests. However, Dental LT Clear V2 and Duran showed that flexural strength and modulus were inversely related to thickness. The compressive test revealed significantly greater compressive resistance in 3D-printed groups, except for the NextDent Ortho Flex at 0.5 mm. The tensile test showed that Dental LT Clear V2 at all thicknesses demonstrated significantly higher tensile strength and modulus, while NextDent Ortho Flex was significantly lowest at any thickness in tensile and flexural properties. In conclusion, the thickness significantly influenced the mechanical behaviors of the 3D-printed retainers. The 0.75 mm thickness of Dental LT Clear V2 could be considered as an alternative to fabricated retainers due to its similar mechanical properties compared with the thermoformed material.

Enhancing sustainable waste management: Hydrothermal carbonization of polyethylene terephthalate and polystyrene plastics for energy recovery

Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of single plastic polymers such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polystyrene (PS) has not yet been explored on a large scale, particularly their thermal behavior, chemical transformations under subcritical conditions, and the energy properties of the resultant hydrochar. This study investigated these aspects by employing techniques, such as thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), elemental and calorific analysis. The results show that PET hydrochar has a superior energy densification (1.37) and energy yield (89 %) compared to PS hydrochar (1.13, 54 %). Hydrothermal carbonization modifies the chemical structure of the polymers by increasing the number of carbonyl groups (CO) in PET and forming new ones in PS, and by enhancing hydroxyl groups (OH) in PET while retaining them in PS. Both materials preserve their aromatic and aliphatic structures, with the introduction of alkenes groups (CC) in the PET hydrochar. PET hydrochar begins to decompose at lower temperatures (150-270 °C) than PS hydrochar (242-283 °C) but reaches higher peak temperatures (420-585 °C vs. 390-470 °C), with both types achieving similar burnout temperatures (650-800 °C). PET hydrochar recorded a higher activation energy (121-126 kJ/mol) than PS hydrochar (67-74 kJ/mol) with the Mampel first-order reaction model as the best fit.

Generation of Eroded Nanoplastics from Domestic Wastes and Their Impact on Macrophage Cell Viability and Gene Expression

This study reports an innovative approach for producing nanoplastics (NP) from various types of domestic waste plastics without the use of chemicals. The plastic materials used included water bottles, styrofoam plates, milk bottles, centrifuge tubes, to-go food boxes, and plastic bags, comprising polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and Poly (Ethylene-co-Methacrylic Acid) (PEMA). The chemical composition of these plastics was confirmed using Raman and FTIR spectroscopy, and they were found to have irregular shapes. The resulting NP particles ranged from 50 to 400 nm in size and demonstrated relative stability when suspended in water. To assess their impact, the study investigated the effects of these NP particulates on cell viability and the expression of genes involved in inflammation and oxidative stress using a macrophage cell line. The findings revealed that all types of NP reduced cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner. Notably, PS, HDPE, and PP induced significant reductions in cell viability at lower concentrations, compared to PEMA and PET. Moreover, exposure to NP led to differential alterations in the expression of inflammatory genes in the macrophage cell line. Overall, this study presents a viable method for producing NP from waste materials that closely resemble real-world NP. Furthermore, the toxicity studies demonstrated distinct cellular responses based on the composition of the NP, shedding light on the potential environmental and health impacts of these particles.

The Development of Sustainable Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-Based (PETG) Blends for Additive Manufacturing Processing-The Use of Multilayered Foil Waste as the Blend Component

The polymer foil industry is one of the leading producers of plastic waste. The development of new recycling methods for packaging products is one of the biggest demands in today's engineering. The subject of this research was the melt processing of multilayered PET-based foil waste with PETG copolymer. The resulting blends were intended for additive manufacturing processing using the fused deposition modeling (FDM) method. In order to improve the properties of the developed materials, the blends compounding procedure was conducted with the addition of a reactive chain extender (CE) and elastomeric copolymer used as an impact modifier (IM). The samples were manufactured using the 3D printing technique and, for comparison, using the traditional injection molding method. The obtained samples were subjected to a detailed characterization procedure, including mechanical performance evaluation, thermal analysis, and rheological measurements. This research confirms that PET-based film waste can be successfully used for the production of filament, and for most samples, the FDM printing process can be conducted without any difficulties. Unfortunately, the unmodified blends are characterized by brittleness, which makes it necessary to use an elastomer additive (IM). The presence of a semicrystalline PET phase improves the thermal resistance of the prepared blends; however, an annealing procedure is required for this purpose.

Effect of 3D-Printed Honeycomb Core on Compressive Property of Hybrid Energy Absorbers: Experimental Testing and Optimization Analysis

This paper presents an innovative method of constructing energy absorbers, whose primary function is to effectively transform kinetic energy into strain energy in events with high deformation rates. Hybrid specimens are proposed considering thin-walled windowed metallic tubes filled with 3D-printed hexagonal honeycombs made of PET-G and ABS thermoplastic. The patterned windows dimensions vary from 20 × 20, 20 × 30, 15 × 20 and 15 × 30 mm2. Although using polymers in engineering and thin-walled sections is not new, their combination has not been explored in this type of structure designed to withstand impacts. Specimens resist out-of-plane quasi-static axial loading, and test results are analyzed, demonstrating that polymer core gives the samples better performance parameters than unfilled samples regarding energy absorption (Ea), load rate (LR), and structural effectiveness (η). An optimization procedure using specialized software was applied to evaluate experimental results, which led to identifying the optimal window geometry (16.4 × 20 mm2, in case) and polymer to be used (ABS). The optimized sample was constructed and tested for axial compression to validate the optimization outcomes. The results reveal that the optimal sample performed similarly to the estimated parameters, making this geometry the best choice under the test conditions.

Biocompatibility and Antimicrobial Profile of Acid Usnic-Loaded Electrospun Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)-Magnetite Nanofibers

The highest amount of the world's polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is designated for fiber production (more than 60%) and food packaging (30%) and it is one of the major polluting polymers. Although there is a great interest in recycling PET-based materials, a large amount of unrecycled material is derived mostly from the food and textile industries. The aim of this study was to obtain and characterize nanostructured membranes with fibrillar consistency based on recycled PET and nanoparticles (Fe3O4@UA) using the electrospinning technique. The obtained fibers limit microbial colonization and the development of biofilms. Such fibers could significantly impact modern food packaging and the design of improved textile fibers with antimicrobial effects and good biocompatibility. In conclusion, this study suggests an alternative for PET recycling and further applies it in the development of antimicrobial biomaterials.

Hybrid Polymer Composites Based on Polystyrene (PS) Used in the Melted and Extruded Manufacturing Technology

As part of the work, innovative hybrid polymer composites dedicated to rapid prototyping, especially for 3D printing with the melted and extruded manufacturing (MEM) technique, were developed. For this purpose, the influence of modified fillers, such as alumina-modified silica, bentonite modified with quaternary ammonium salt, and lignin/silicon dioxide hybrid filler, on the functional properties of polystyrene-based composites was investigated. The introduced additives were selected to improve the processing properties of polystyrene (PS), in particular its thermal stability, while maintaining good mechanical properties. In the first part of the work, using the proprietary technological line, filaments from unfilled PS and its composites were obtained, which contain modified fillers in the amount of 1.5% to 3.0% by weight. Samples for testing functional properties were obtained by 3D printing in MEM technology and injection technique. The rheological properties-mass melt flow rate (MFR), viscosity, and mechanical properties-are presented in the further part of the work. The size and the respective dispersion in the polystyrene polymer matrix of the fillers used were determined by scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersion spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). The correct dispersion of additives in PS was also confirmed by wide-angle X-ray analysis (WAXS). A significant improvement in the thermal stability of the obtained composites after the introduction of fillers into the polymer matrix was confirmed on the basis of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The remaining tests of physicochemical properties, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and infrared spectroscopy with Fourier transform (FT-IR) allowed us to state no significant changes in relation to polystyrene. The obtained test results allowed us to conclude that the amount and type of fillers used in the PS polymer matrix significantly affect the performance properties of the tested hybrid composites. The composites obtained as part of the work can be successfully used in rapid prototyping technologies, especially for the production of details originally designed from PS, which are required to have higher thermal stability than is guaranteed only by the polymer matrix.

Fabrication of electrospun Mondia whitei/PVA nanofibres: application in the removal of acidic drugs

Novel electrospun Mondia whitei/PVA blend nanofibres were fabricated for potential water treatment applications by blending a natural polymer extracted from Mondia whitei (MW) roots with poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA). The fabricated nanofibres were shown to have a smooth and uniform morphology with an average diameter of 99 ± 0.025 nm. The FTIR, XPS, XRD, and TGA characterisation results indicated changes in functional groups, crystallinity, and thermal stability of the Mondia whitei/PVA blend nanofibres, as compared to the original material. This finding confirmed that the polymers interacted through hydrogen bonding of MW and hydroxyl groups of PVA. The performance of the fabricated nanofibres was investigated for the removal of acidic drugs from spiked water samples. Factors (concentration of acidic drugs, dosage of the nanofibers and contact time) which affect the removal efficiency of the nanofibres were optimised using ultrapure water. Using the nanofibres, 100% removal efficiency for acidic drugs (aspirin, ketoprofen, fenoprofen, diclofenac, and ibuprofen) was achieved. The removal efficiency of the influent wastewater was 76, 89, 97, 93 and 94% for aspirin, ketoprofen, fenoprofen, diclofenac and ibuprofen, respectively, while the removal efficiency of the effluent was 86, 96, 97, 97 and 95% for aspirin, ketoprofen, fenoprofen, diclofenac and ibuprofen, respectively.

Generic foresight model in changing hygiene habits with the pandemic: use of wet wipes in next generations

The vast use of wet wipes has now become a habitude, particularly following the altered perception of cleanliness during the pandemic and the encouragement towards using WW (wet wipe) to ensure parent's and children's hygiene. This study primarily aims to create a projection of the WW waste that will emerge in Turkey as a result of the promoted consumption by children who are predicted to retain the WW usage practices of their parents. In line with this habit adopted by children, the number of daily WW usage which is currently around 210 million is expected to rise to over 250 million between the years 2040 and 2060, depending on how the children are guided by their parent's existing habits. In this study, related calculations were made with FT-IR spectroscopy, taking into account the functional bond structure and percentage distribution of polymers in WWs. In this way, it is detected that 360 T, 568 T, and 623 T polymer materials would be thrown into the environment per day in 2021, 2040 and 2060, respectively. The damage of chemicals in WW content, employed at various concentrations, to the ecosystem structure is predicted and measures to be taken are outlined.

A Novel Manufacturing Concept of LCP Fiber-Reinforced GPET-Based Sandwich Structures with an FDM 3D-Printed Core

The presented research was focused on the development of a new method of sandwich structure manufacturing involving FDM-printing (fused deposition modeling) techniques and compression molding. The presented concept allows for the preparation of thermoplastic-based composites with enhanced mechanical properties. The sample preparation process consists of 3D printing the sandwich's core structure using the FDM method. For comparison purposes, we used two types of GPET (copolymer of polyethylene terephthalate)-based filaments, pure resin, and carbon fiber (CF)-reinforced filaments. The outer reinforcing layer "skins" of the sandwich structure were prepared from the compression molded prepregs made from the LCP (liquid-crystal polymer)-fiber fabric with the GPET-based matrix. The final product consisting of an FDM-printed core and LCP-based prepreg was prepared using the compression molding method. The prepared samples were subjected to detailed materials analyses, including thermal analyses (thermogravimetry-TGA, differencial scanning calorimetry-DSC, and dynamic thermal-mechanical analysis-DMTA) and mechanical tests (tensile, flexural, and impact). As indicated by the static test results, the modulus and strength of the prepared composites were slightly improved; however, the stiffness of the prepared materials was more related to the presence of the CF-reinforced filament than the presence of the composite prepreg. The main advantage of using the developed method is revealed during impact tests. Due to the presence of long LCP fibers, the prepared sandwich samples are characterized by very high impact resistance. The impact strength increased from 1.7 kJ/m² for pure GPET samples to 50.4 kJ/m² for sandwich composites. For GPET/CF samples, the increase is even greater. The advantages of the developed solution were illustrated during puncture tests in which none of the sandwich samples were pierced.

Polymer Composites Based on Glycol-Modified Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate) Applied to Additive Manufacturing Using Melted and Extruded Manufacturing Technology

As part of the work, innovative polymer composites dedicated to 3D printing applications were developed. For this purpose, the influence of modified fillers, such as silica modified with alumina, bentonite modified with quaternary ammonium salt, and hybrid filler lignin/silicon dioxide, on the functional properties of composites based on glycol-modified poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET-G) was investigated. In the first part of the work, using the proprietary technological line, filaments from unfilled polymer and its composites were obtained, which contained modified fillers in an amount from 1.5% to 3.0% by weight. The fittings for the testing of functional properties were obtained using the 3D printing technique in the Melted and Extruded Manufacturing (MEM) technology and the injection molding technique. In a later part of the work, rheological properties such as mass melt flow rate (MFR) and viscosity, and mechanical properties such as Rockwell hardness, Charpy impact strength, and static tensile strength with Young's modulus were presented. The structure of the obtained composites was also described and determined using scanning electron microscopy with an attachment for the microanalysis of chemical composition (SEM/EDS) and the atomic force microscope (AFM). The correct dispersion of the fillers in the polymer matrix was confirmed by wide-angle X-ray scattering analysis (WAXS). In turn, the physicochemical properties were presented on the basis of the research results: thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). On the basis of the obtained results, it was found that both the amount and the type of fillers used significantly affected the functional properties of the tested composites.

The use of mussel-inspired polydopamine interlayer for high-efficiency surface functionalization of PET fabrics

The surface modifications of polymer materials are carried out to improve surface properties, add new functionalities and thus enlarge their application areas. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a commonly used textile fabric to achieve functional properties via surface modification techniques. However, its inert and non-reactive nature necessitates an activation process before the surface modification to create functional surfaces. Plasma treatment and chemical methods are commonly used for this aim. However, these techniques can easily damage the surface of the PET fabric and result in decreased mechanical properties. In this study, we proposed a new method to activate the surface of PET using polydopamine (PDA) interlayer, known as substrate-independent coating material, to form a better and more homogenous polyaniline (PAni) coating via an in-situ polymerization technique. The surface appearance of the samples was investigated using scanning electron microscopy, and the distribution of elements was analyzed using an energy-dispersive (EDS) detector. Thermal properties of the samples were explored using thermogravimetric analyses and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was used to compare the chemical structures of the coated and uncoated samples. It was found that the PDA interlayer between PAni and PET significantly reduced the sheet resistance by providing more homogenous and chemically stable PAni coatings. Moreover, the effect of the PDA and PAni coating on the optical properties was investigated, and it was found that the PDA + PAni coated fabric exhibited a maximum of 10% reflectance in the range of 400 and 700 nm while uncoated fabric showed over 90%.

A Novel Strategy for Creating an Antibacterial Surface Using a Highly Efficient Electrospray-Based Method for Silica Deposition

Adhesion of bacteria on biomedical implant surfaces is a prerequisite for biofilm formation, which may increase the chances of infection and chronic inflammation. In this study, we employed a novel electrospray-based technique to develop an antibacterial surface by efficiently depositing silica homogeneously onto polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film to achieve hydrophobic and anti-adhesive properties. We evaluated its potential application in inhibiting bacterial adhesion using both Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacteria. These silica-deposited PET surfaces could provide hydrophobic surfaces with a water contact angle greater than 120° as well as increased surface roughness (root mean square roughness value of 82.50 ± 16.22 nm and average roughness value of 65.15 ± 15.26 nm) that could significantly reduce bacterial adhesion by approximately 66.30% and 64.09% for E. coli and S. aureus, respectively, compared with those on plain PET surfaces. Furthermore, we observed that silica-deposited PET surfaces showed no detrimental effects on cell viability in human dermal fibroblasts, as confirmed by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide and live/dead assays. Taken together, such approaches that are easy to synthesize, cost effective, and efficient, and could provide innovative strategies for preventing bacterial adhesion on biomedical implant surfaces in the clinical setting.

Multiblock Elastomers TPEAA and TPEEA: Physical Structure and Properties

A three series of terpolymers composed of the blocks PTMO (M_PTMO = 1000 g/mol) or DLAol (M_DLAol = 540 g/mol), PA12 (M_PA12 = 2000 g/mol) and xGT (DP_xGT = 2) with various chemical compositions of ester block were obtained. The series differ in the chemical structure of the flexible block and weight content of the soft phase. The effect of the number of carbons dividing the terephthalate groups on the synthesis, structure and properties of these elastomers has been investigated. To confirm assumed chemical structure Carbon-13 (¹³C NMR) and Proton (¹H NMR) Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) were used. The influence of chemical compositions of ester block on the thermal properties and the phase separation of obtained systems were defined by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Dynamic Mechanical Thermal Analysis (DMTA) and Wide Angle X-ray Scattering (WAXS). The mechanical and elastic properties were evaluated.

Thermal and mechanical characterization of thermoplastic orthodontic aligners discs after molding process

Polymeric aesthetic aligners were introduced in orthodontics as an innovative alternative to fixed appliances, however, their compositions and the thermal molding process may influence the biomechanical characteristics of these aligners. In this study four different clear aligner brands were used, ACE 035 Essix, C + Essix, Crystal 0.75 and Crystal 1.0, whose aim was to identify the thermal-processing influence on the mechanical and physicochemical properties of these materials, and to suggest a orthodontic sequence of wear for these appliances to achieve more effective treatment results. For the tensile tests the sample size calculation was based on probability distributions from the F test. The effect size used was 0.3, type 1 error of 0.05. Statistical Yield strength and Young's Modulus results were evaluated using the Shapiro-Wilk test. The groups were compared using the parametric test of analysis of variance, with Tukey post-test. Differences were statistically considered at the p < 0.05. The Infrared spectroscopy analysis showed no changes in the samples' chemical structure after thermal-processing. However, in the polypropylene aligner, differences were verified in the region attributed to the crystalline phase. Differential Scanning Calorimetry analysis for the same sample showed a crystallinity fraction decrease due to relaxation between polymer chains after molding. In the tensile tests evaluated, the tensile strength and 'Young's modulus presented higher values for aligners containing 100% polyethylene terephthalate glycol. Performing an analogy exercise of the properties of orthodontic wires used in conventional fixed appliances and, relating them to orthodontic plastics, aligners composed of different materials and/or thicknesses could be used in increasing sequence in terms of the modulus of elasticity, starting with C+, which has a lower elastic modulus value, using the ACE 035 as an intermediate and finishing with the Crystal 0.75 and 1.0, providing the desired stiffness to the aligners for the final phase.

Atomic Layer Deposition on Polymer Thin Films: On the Role of Precursor Infiltration and Reactivity

Inorganic barriers grown by atomic layer deposition (ALD) can overcome the stability issues originating from the permeation of foreign species (water and oxygen) into polymer thin films. Alternatively, infiltration of ALD species into the bulk of the polymer can be used to modify its characteristic properties. In this study, the feasibility of growing an inorganic barrier with ALD on polystyrene, poly(methyl methacrylate), and poly(ethylene terephthalate glycol) thin films is evaluated. The nucleation and growth of the ALD layer, including the infiltration into the polymer thin film, are monitored in situ using spectroscopic ellipsometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy for Al₂O₃-ALD with trimethylaluminum as the Al precursor and H₂O as the reactant. The results show that the deposition temperature and the presence and location of functional groups in the polymer chain exert the strongest influence on the infiltration behavior and as such allow us to manipulate (i.e. to prevent or expedite) the infiltration into the polymer thin film.

Solvent-free synthesis of symmetric methylene diesters via direct reaction of aromatic carboxylates with 1,n-dihaloalkanes

An efficient methodology for the synthesis of symmetrical methylene diesters was developed through direct reaction of various aromatic carboxylates with 1,n-dihaloalkanes under solvent-free conditions. This strategy offers a high product yield, facile work-up and purification, and an environmentally friendly approach to obtain long-chain methylene carboxylate scaffolds with increased diversity.

PET/Bio-Based Terpolyester Blends with High Dimensional Thermal Stability

To improve the dimensional thermal stability of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a poly(ethylene glycol 1,4-cyclohexane dimethylene (CHDM) isosorbide (ISB) terephthalate) (PEICT) known as ECOZEN^®T110 (EZT) was introduced into PET using a melt blending technique. The miscibility, morphology, and thermal properties of the PET/EZT samples were investigated. The introduction of amorphous EZT into semi-crystalline PET increased the glass transition temperature (T_g) but decreased the crystallinity, which could be related to the transesterification reaction. By adding EZT contents up to 20%, the PET/EZT samples showed a single T_g, which indicated the miscibility between PET and EZT. However, two T_g values were observed in the PET/EZT samples with higher EZT contents (30–70%), indicating partial miscibility. This may have been due to the slightly different rheological and thermodynamic parameters that were affected by a higher ratio of bulky (rigid ISB and ductile CHDM) groups in EZT. However, the heat distortion temperature of the PET/EZT samples remarkably increased, which indicated that the dimensional stability was truly enhanced. Although the crystallinity of the PET/EZT samples decreased with increasing EZT content, the tensile strength and Young’s modulus decreased slightly. Based on these results, the as-prepared PET/EZT samples with high dimensional stability can be used as a high-temperature polymeric material in various applications.

Enhancing Mechanical Properties of Polymer 3D Printed Parts

Parts made from thermoplastic polymers fabricated through 3D printing have reduced mechanical properties compared to those fabricated through injection molding. This paper analyzes a post-processing heat treatment aimed at enhancing mechanical properties of 3D printed parts, in order to reduce the difference mentioned above and thus increase their applicability in functional applications. Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG) polymer is used to 3D print test parts with 100% infill. After printing, samples are packed in sodium chloride powder and then heat treated at a temperature of 220 °C for 5 to 15 min. During heat treatment, the powder acts as support, preventing deformation of the parts. Results of destructive testing experiments show a significant increase in tensile and compressive strength following heat treatment. Treated parts 3D printed in vertical orientation, usually the weakest, display 143% higher tensile strength compared to a control group, surpassing the tensile strength of untreated parts printed in horizontal orientation—usually the strongest. Furthermore, compressive strength increases by 50% following heat treatment compared to control group. SEM analysis reveals improved internal structure after heat treatment. These results show that the investigated heat treatment increases mechanical characteristics of 3D printed PETG parts, without the downside of severe part deformation, thus reducing the performance gap between 3D printing and injection molding when using common polymers.

Biobased Thermoplastic Elastomers: Structure-Property Relationship of Poly(hexamethylene 2,5-furanodicarboxylate)-Block-Poly(tetrahydrofuran) Copolymers Prepared by Melt Polycondensation

A series of poly(hexamethylene 2,5-furanodicarboxylate)-block-poly(tetrahydrofuran) (PHF-b-F-pTHF) copolymers were synthesized using a two-stage procedure, employing transesterification and polycondensation. The content of pTHF flexible segments varied from 25 to 75 wt.%. 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses were applied to confirm the molecular structure of the materials. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical measurements (DMTA), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) allowed characterizing the supramolecular structure of the synthesized copolymers. SEM analysis was applied to show the differences in the block copolymers' morphologies concerning their chemical structure. The influence of the number of flexible segments in the copolymers on the phase transition temperatures, thermal properties, as well as the thermo-oxidative and thermal stability was analyzed. TGA analysis, along with tensile tests (static and cyclic), confirmed the utilitarian performance of the synthesized bio-based materials. It was found that an increase in the amount of pTHF caused the increase of both number-average and weight-average molecular weights and intrinsic viscosities, and at the same time causing the shift of the values of phase transition temperatures toward lower ones. Besides, PHF-b-F-pTHF containing 75 wt.% of F-pTHF units was proved to be a promising thermoplastic shape memory polymer (SMP) with a switching temperature of 20 °C.

Strategies for the synthesis of block copolymers with biodegradable polyester segments

Oxygenated block copolymers with biodegradable polyester segments can be prepared in one-pot through sequential or simultaneous addition of monomers. This review highlights the state of the art in this area.

Thermal, structural and morphological characterization of dental polymers for clinical applications

PURPOSE

Polymers are used in dentistry on a daily basis due to their mechanical, functional and aesthetic properties. However, such biomaterials are subject to deterioration in the oral environment. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the structural properties of five commonly used dental polymers to determine their best clinical indications.

METHODS

Four hundred-fifty samples of five dental polymers (polyethylenterephthalat - glycol modified (PG), polymethyl methacrylate (PA), ethylene vinyl acetate(E), polycarbonate (PC), polyetheretherketone (PK) were prepared to investigate their thermal, structural and chemical characteristics using energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared analysis(FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry(DSC), thermogravimetric analysis(TGA), X-ray diffraction(XRD), and Shore D hardness test. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, Tukey's HSD, and Levene's tests (α=0.05).

RESULTS

PK (87.2) and PA (82.4) displayed the highest hardness values and smooth surfaces, as observed with SEM (p<0.001). Silica was detected in PK, PA, and E by EDS and XRD. The highest glass transition temperature was recorded for PC (145.00±2.00°C) and PK (143.00±1.87°C), while the lowest value was measured for E (50.00±2.12°C)(p<0.001).The highest mass loss was detected for PG (91.40±1.40%) by TGA.

CONCLUSIONS

PA and PK polymers can be used for stress-containing treatments due to their mechanical properties. These two materials are also advantageous in terms of plaque accumulation as these polymers reveal smoother surfaces than other groups. Insufficient physical and thermal properties require the use of E with caution and only in limited clinical indications.

Environmentally Friendly Polymer Blends Based on Post-Consumer Glycol-Modified Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate) (PET-G) Foils and Poly(Ethylene 2,5-Furanoate) (PEF): Preparation and Characterization

Environmentally friendly polymer blends between post-consumer PET-G and bio-based poly(ethylene 2,5 furanoate) (PEF) have been prepared. The PET-G granules were obtained from the post-consumer glycol-modified poly(ethylene terephthalate) PET-G foils from Nicrometal S.A. as a result of materials recycling. PEF was synthesized from dimethyl furan-2,5-dicarboxylate and 1,2-ethylene glycol (BioUltra) by a two-stage melt polycondensation process. According to the calculations followed by Hoy's method, one has studied the miscibility of the components in the blend. The molecular structure of PET-G/PEF blends was analyzed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy, while the morphology of the blends was determined by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). To evaluate phase transition temperatures, as well as the thermal effects in PET-G/PEF blends, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Dynamic Mechanical Thermal Analysis (DMTA), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), were performed. Tensile tests revealed that along with an increase in the amount of PEF, an increase in Young's modulus was observed. Besides, the existence of interfacial interactions between polymers, especially in the case of PET-G/PEF 80/20, enabling the PET-G chains to form a network structure with the PEF by reacting with their functional groups, allows observation of a synergistic effect in the improvement of thermal stability and water absorption.

Thermoplastic Disks Used for Commercial Orthodontic Aligners: Complete Physicochemical and Mechanical Characterization

Invisible orthodontic aligners (IOAs) have been introduced in the orthodontic field as an innovative alternative for fixed brackets, in relation to their ability to be easily inserted/removed from the oral cavity without affecting the chewing ability and the aesthetic of the patients. The paper provides a complete physicochemical and mechanical characterization of thermoplastic materials in the form of disks used for commercial IOAs. A wide palette of specific techniques is considered, from tensile tests and dynamic-mechanical analysis, to X-Ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR) analyses and water absorption tests. The disks are investigated before and after immersion into staining beverages (red wine, coffee, nicotine and artificial saliva), in terms of colour variations, transparency, and microscopic surface modifications by means of colorimetry, UV-VIS absorbance and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Among all the samples, polyurethane (PU) exhibited the highest crystallinity and the highest values of mechanical and thermal resistance, while the poly(ethylene terephthalate)-glycol (PETG) samples presented better transparency and less ability to absorb water. Moreover, red wine and coffee give noticeable colour variations after 14 days of immersion, together with a slight reduction of transparency.

Novel Hybrid PETG Composites for 3D Printing

This paper is focused on the preparation of novel hybrid polymer composite materials for 3D filaments. As the reinforcing filler, expanded graphite, carbon fibers, and combinations thereof were used in various ratios up to 10%. The mechanical and thermal properties of virgin and recycled polyethylene phthalate glycol-modified (PETG) composite materials were determined. Almost all prepared composite materials were suitable for 3D printing and they have enhanced mechanical properties compared to the neat PETG matrices. Addition of the fillers to both polymer matrices has an only slight effect on the thermal stability, but the addition of carbon fibers significantly reduced the thermal expansion coefficient. The composites from cheaper recycled PETG have comparable properties to virgin PETG composites, which is of economic and ecological importance. New and cheaper materials can help expand 3D printing to manufacturing plants and the use of 3D printers for special applications.

ATR-FTIR Analysis and One-Week Stress Relaxation of Four Orthodontic Aligner Materials

The aim of this study was to estimate possible differences in the chemical composition and relaxation of orthodontic aligner materials. Four commercially available thermoplastic materials CAM (Scheu-Dental, Iserlohn, Germany), COP (Essix, Dentsply Raintree Essix Sarasota,FL, USA), DUR (Great Lakes Dental Technologies, Tonawanda, NY) and ERK (Erkodent Erich Kopp, Pfalzgrafenweiler Germany) were included in this study. Rectangular strips from each material were prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions and subjected to attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy and stress relaxation characterization. The reduction in applied stress (RAS) after one week was estimated and statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA at the 0.05 level of significance. All specimens were subjected to optical microscopy before and after stress relaxation testing under transmittance polarized illumination. ATR-FTIR microscopy revealed that all materials are made of polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) while no significant differences were identified in RAS values among materials tested, which ranged from 6%-10% (p ≥ 0.05). All samples illustrated the developments of shear bands during relaxation testing according to optical microscopy findings. The tested materials illustrated similar chemical composition and relaxation behavior and thus no differences in their clinical efficacy are anticipated.

Colorimetric and spectrophotometric measurements of orthodontic thermoplastic aligners exposed to various staining sources and cleaning methods

Background

Manufacturers of orthodontic aligners suggest that users remove appliances every time they consume solid foods or any drink (except water). This is to avoid a color change within the clear thermoplastic material of which they are made. However, limited quantitative evidence exists to guide users and practitioners in this regard. Herein, we evaluated the color stability of the polymer forming three different American brands of aligners and the stain-removal potential of two cleansers to provide such guidelines.

Methods

The removable appliances (300 specimens, 100 per brand) were exposed to different staining agents common in a regular diet (coffee, black tea, red wine, cola) or to a control solution in vitro over 12 h or 7 days. The three brands evaluated were Invisalign®, ClearCorrect® and Minor Tooth Movement®. These were then cleaned by using either Invisalign® cleaning crystals or the Cordless Sonic Cleaner combined with a Retainer Brite® tablet. The CIELAB color space approach was used to compare color changes (ΔE) in aligners before immersion (T0), after a 12-h exposure (T1), after a 7-day exposure (T2) and after cleaning (T3). Statistical methods (Levene’s test, ANOVA, Brunner-Langer model, Tukey’s range test and t-test) were used to identify interactions between the brands themselves or between the brands and the cleaning methods. Statistical analyses were performed at the .05 significance level.

Results

A 12-h or 7-day exposure to instant coffee or red wine significantly colored the Invisalign® aligners compared to the two other brands. Black tea created an important extrinsic color change for all three brands after 7 days. Clinically, both cleaning methods showed a better efficacy in removing stains from black tea compared to other staining agents.

Conclusions

The Invisalign® aligners were more prone to pigmentation than the ClearCorrect® or the Minor Tooth Movement® devices after an exposure to coffee or red wine. Black tea caused important stains on the surface of the three tested brands. Both cleansing methods performed similarly.

Accelerated physical ageing of poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene-co-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol terephthalate)

Poly(1,4-cyclohexylenedimethylene-co-2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol terephthalate) shows physical ageing, without chemical degradation, resulting in 80% impact toughness decrease.