Development of innovative light-curing resin composites featuring dual hydrolysis resistance

Objective The present study aims to address the negative impact of oral wet environments on the performance of light-curing composite resins by developing novel light-curing resin composites featuring dual hydrolytic resistance barriers. We evaluate their mechanical properties and hydrolysis resistance compared to Z250XT. Methods Urushiol-modified monomer (UMM) and Glass flake-KH570 were synthesized and incorporated into resin composites. Initially, resin matrix groups were prepared using UMM, with a control group that did not include UMM. These resin matrix groups were assessed for viscosity, degree of conversion (DC), polymerization shrinkage (PS), contact angle (CA), water sorption (Wsp), water solubility (Wsl), and mechanical properties to identify the optimal formulation. Subsequently, Glass flake-KH570 was added to the best-performing group in varying weight ratios, with Z250XT serving as the control group. The resin composite groups were evaluated for DC,PS,Wsp, Wsl, mechanical properties, and biocompatibility. Results The resin matrix containing UMM demonstrated lower viscosity, higher DC, reduced PS, increased CA, and decreased Wsp and Wsl compared to the control group. The optimal performance of the resin matrix was achieved at 15 wt % UMM. In experiments involving resin composites, the addition of Glass flake-KH570 resulted in lower Wsp and Wsl than Z250XT. Aging tests, supported by mechanical property measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), indicated that UG65 exhibited superior mechanical properties and hydrolysis resistance compared to Z250XT. Conclusion The incorporation of UMM and Glass flake-KH570 into light-curing resin composites significantly enhanced their hydrolysis resistance, demonstrating strong potential for improving aging resistance in dental applications. Clinical Significance This novel resin composites demonstrate superior hydrolytic resistance compared to the commercial resin Z250XT, potentially offering a new approach to extending the service life of dental restorations.