Characterization of the resistance of an experimental ultra-translucent zirconia

Abstract

Recently, ultra-translucent zirconia systems have been developed, known as third-generation zirconia. Such systems present a prevalence of cubic phase through an increased yttria content (5-9 mol% yttria partially stabilized zirconia, Y-PSZ) . However, the increase in the cubic phase content has been associated with a decrease in the mechanical properties of the material. Therefore, the present in vitro study aims to characterize the microstructure, the crystalline content and the mechanical properties of an experimental third generation zirconia, 9Y-PSZ. Disc-shaped specimens will be obtained by uniaxial and isostatic pressing of the 9 Y-PSZ powder (Zpex SmileÒ, Tosoh Corporation). The discs will be sintered and polished using a sequence of discs and diamond solutions. The microstructure and the crystalline content will be evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. The mechanical properties will be characterized by biaxial flexural strength test to determine the characteristic strength, Weibull modulus and probability of survival.