Objectives: To measure and then mathematically model polymerization stress-dependence upon systematic variations of C-factor (bonded/unbonded area ratio) for the Bioman instrument [1], recording stress by free cantilever-beam deflection; compliance 1.5 microm/MPa.
Methods: A light-cured resin-composite (RZD103; Ivoclar) with 57% (v/v) 450 nm filler was studied. Facing surfaces: glass slab and steel rod-end, constituting the Bioman test chamber, being perpendicular to the measured axial stress-direction, were varied: (a) with rod-diameters (phi), from 1 to 10mm in 1mm increments (with 0.8mm gap height); and then (b) with gap heights (h) in 16 steps from 0.05 to 1.50mm (with phi=10mm). For each h and phi combination, giving C-factors ranging from 0.6 to 100, shrinkage-stress was recorded for 1h from start of 40s irradiation at 600 mW cm(-2) for photo-polymerization at 23 degrees C (n=3). Shrinkage-stress (S(sigma)) was plotted directly as functions of h, phi, and C and also per unit composite mass, (S(sigma)g(-1)). ANOVA and Tukey's statistics were applied.
Results: Series A-diameter variation; with C-factor increasing from 0.6 to 6, gave an exact exponential decrease in S(sigma) from 45 to 8 MPa. Series B-height variation; with C-factor increasing from 3 to 100, gave increasing S(sigma) from 1 to 8 MPa. Since composite mass played an equally dominant role, plots of stress-variations per unit composite mass, (S(sigma)g(-1)) separated these effects, confirming progressive off-axial stress-relief with increasing h.
Significance: (i) Values of h=0.8 and phi=10mm, recommended [1] for Bioman use, were confirmed as appropriate. Every lab instrument for measuring S(sigma) necessarily embodies specific C-factors and compliance values in the instrument design. (ii) Configuration (C) factor is recognized as an important parameter affecting manifestation of shrinkage-stress within restorative cavities and luting gaps. However, the restorative mass must equally be considered when translating shrinkage-science into specific clinical recommendations.