Development of vitroceramic composite for dental applications

• Grant number: 04/09178-8
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: May 01, 2005
• End date: March 31, 2008
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Materials and Metallurgical Engineering - Nonmetallic Materials
• Principal Investigator: Luiz Carlos de Carvalho
• Grantee: Luiz Carlos de Carvalho
• Company: EDG Equipamentos e Controles Ltda
• City: São Carlos

Abstract

The basic idea of this project is to develop a vitroceramic composite for application in dental restoration aiming for the development of a prosthesis entirely composed of ceramic materials. The manufacture of a restorative composite of this type is a challenge for materials science and engineering, since generally the work requires short processing times and low retraction during thermic treatment. In addition, the ceramic restoration needs to be translucent and offer high resistance to fracture. Therefore, the strategy to be employed is to develop a porous ceramic matrix or skeleton in which a glass will be infiltrated, producing in this manner, a composite. The creation of the vitroceramic prosthesis aims to replace the current metal-based dental prostheses. This development should permit the EDG Equipamentos to enter the market of consumable dental materials, as well as diminish Brazilian dependence on imported dental materials. (AU)