Enhanced resin zirconia adhesion with carbon nanotubes-infused silanes: A pilot study

This laboratory study aimed to enhance the adhesion strength of resin cement to zirconia by infusing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in experimental silane primers. Eighteen ZrO2 blanks were pretreated with Rocatec™ Soft, and divided into six groups: Group 1: Monobond® S silane (control); Group 2: 0.5 wt.% single-walled CNTs blended Monobond® S; Group 3: 0.5 wt.% multiple-walled CNTs blended Monobond® S; Group 4: a blend of 1.0 vol.% 3-acryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (ACPS) + 0.5 vol.% bis-1,2-(triethoxysilyl)ethane (BTSE); Group 5: 0.5 wt.% single-walled CNTs blended in 1.0 vol.% ACPS + 0.5 vol.% BTSE; and Group 6: 0.5 wt.% multiple-walled CNTs blended in 1.0 vol.% ACPS + 0.5 vol.% BTSE. Next, resin composite stubs were prepared on treated ZrO2 surfaces. The specimens were stored in distilled water at 37°C ± 2°C for 2 months and 4 months. According to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post hoc test (n = 10, α = 0.05), the highest enclosed mold shear bond strength (EM-SBS) value was observed in Group 5 (20.5 MPa ± 8.0 MPa) at the end of 4 months. Experimental silane primer containing a blend of 1.0 vol.% ACPS and 0.5 vol.% BTSE with infused single-walled CNTs might significantly enhance resin cement adhesion to silica-coated ZrO2.