Publication Date

8-2024

Advisor(s) - Committee Chair

Ali Er, Ivan Novikov, Jasminka Terzic

Degree Program

Department of Physics and Astronomy

Degree Type

Master of Science

Abstract

Zirconia is rapidly becoming a preferred alternative to titanium in dental applications, primarily due to its aesthetic resemblance to natural teeth. This material’s tooth-like color avoids the aesthetic issues associated with the grey metal tint of titanium implants. Additionally, zirconia is hypoallergenic, making it an ideal choice for patients with metal sensitivities or allergies. Despite these advantages, zirconia generally exhibits lower biocompatibility and osseointegration compared to titanium implants. This study investigates laser-assisted, controlled imprinting technique on zirconia surfaces to enhance these properties. Our research used zirconia pellets, produced from powdered monoclinic zirconia pressed in a pellet press machine. Two methods were employed to achieve suitable pattern depth and fidelity using a 1064 nm Nd-YAG laser operating at a 10 Hz frequency. Patterning methods were applied to monoclinic, pre-sintered, and tetragonal (sintered) zirconia samples. Each experimental parameters were controlled to achieve high precision in the pattern formation. Produced patterns were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). These analyses provided comprehensive insights into the morphology, topography, and structural characteristics of the patterned zirconia surfaces. We were able to produce patterns ranging in size from 7 μm to 50 μm in mesh size and depth of up to 2 μm. XRD analysis shows primarily monoclinic zirconia in powder form, primarily tetragonal at 1450 oC sintering and 50-50 monoclinic and tetragonal phase for zirconia at 1200 oC sintering. In addition to morphological analysis, the impact of the patterned surface on protein adsorption was also assessed. Protein adsorption has risen by 1.92, when 27% of the surface was patterned. Adsorption increased by 2.69, with 36% of surface patterned. Direct proportionality of adsorption to surface patterns, suggests enhanced bioactivity. This is particularly relevant for improving osseointegration, as higher protein adsorption can facilitate better cell attachment and growth. This study illustrates the potential for the use of laser technology for enhancing dental material properties, contributing effectively to developing zirconia implants that offer better aesthetic and functional characteristics.

Disciplines

Condensed Matter Physics | Engineering | Materials Science and Engineering | Physical Sciences and Mathematics | Physics | Plasma and Beam Physics | Structural Materials

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