Mechanical behavior and color change of facial prosthetic elastomers after outdoor weathering in a hot and humid climate

Abstract Statement of problem A common reason for replacing a maxillofacial prosthesis is the deterioration of its properties. Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of weathering in a hot and humid climate on the tear strength, tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, elongation percentage, and color of 3 maxillofacial materials. Material and methods Three silicone materials were tested. Specimens were exposed to outdoor weathering for 6 months in a hot and humid environment. Tear and tensile strengths were measured with a universal testing machine before and after outdoor weathering. Color change was evaluated by recording L*, a*, and b* values at base line and after outdoor weathering with a spectrophotometer. The ΔE, ΔL*, Δa*, and Δb* of the specimens were calculated. Data were analyzed with 2-way ANOVA and the post hoc Scheffé test (α=.05). Results For all tested elastomers, outdoor weathering decreased the tear strength and modulus of elasticity values significantly ( P