The Nanomechanical Performance and Water Uptake of a Flowable Short Fiber Composite: The Influence of Bulk and Layering Restorative Techniques

Tarjányi, Tamás and Jakab, András and Sámi, Márton and Bali, Krisztián and Rárosi, Ferenc and Jarábik, Maja and Braunitzer, Gábor and Palkovics, Dániel and Lassila, Lippo and Lempel, Edina and Fráter, Márk Tibor and Garoushi, Sufyan (2025) The Nanomechanical Performance and Water Uptake of a Flowable Short Fiber Composite: The Influence of Bulk and Layering Restorative Techniques. POLYMERS, 17. No. 1553. ISSN 2073-4360

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Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the nanomechanical surface properties and water uptake of a flowable short-fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) using various restorative techniques in order to assess its potential as a standalone restorative material. Nanoindentation and compressive creep testing were employed to characterize material performance. Three resin composites were examined: a flowable SFRC (everX Flow), a bulk-fill particulate filler composite (PFC), and a conventional PFC. Five experimental groups were established based on the restorative technique: layered PFC, layered SFRC, bulk SFRC, bulk PFC, and a bi-structure combining SFRC and PFC. Ninety standardized specimens (n = 18/group) were fabricated. Static and creep nanoindentation tests were conducted to assess surface properties, and water uptake was measured over a 30-day period. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests. Nanoindentation revealed significant differences in hardness, with bulk PFC exhibiting the lowest values (p < 0.001). Creep testing indicated changes in modulus and viscosity following water storage. Notably, bulk SFRC showed the lowest water absorption (p < 0.001). Overall, bulk-applied SFRC demonstrated favorable nanomechanical properties and reduced water uptake, demonstrating its suitability as a standalone restorative material. Further clinical investigations are recommended to validate its long-term performance.

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