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.