Evaluation of Effect of Intrinsic Pigment on Tensile Strength, Tear Strength and Percentage of Elongation in Two Commercially Available Room Temperature Vulcanizing Maxillofacial Silicone Elastomers - An Invitro Study

Dr. Muhsina T, Dr. R. Ravichandran

Abstract: Background: Silicone elastomers are indispensable materials in maxillofacial prosthetics owing to their flexibility, biocompatibility, and ability to replicate natural tissue appearance. Although intrinsic pigmentation enhances esthetics, it may influence the mechanical integrity of the material, thereby affecting the long-term performance and durability of prostheses. Achieving an optimal balance between color enhancement and mechanical strength remains a key challenge. Aim: To evaluate the effect of intrinsic pigmentation on the tensile strength, tear strength, and percentage of elongation of two commercially available room temperature vulcanizing (RTV) maxillofacial silicone elastomers. Materials and methods: Two RTV silicones?A-2186 (Factor II, USA) and Biomed Silicone (MP Sai Pvt. Ltd., India)?were tested with and without 0.2 wt% intrinsic pigment (P107 Sienna, Technovent). Standardized dumbbell-shaped and trouser-shaped specimens were fabricated according to ASTM D412 and ASTM D624 specifications, respectively. Mechanical testing was conducted using an Instron Universal Testing Machine. The independent t-test was used to compare quantitative parameters between groups, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Analyses were performed using SPSS software, version 20.0. Results: A-2186 exhibited superior mechanical properties compared to Biomed Silicone. Pigment incorporation significantly improved the tensile, tear, and elongation properties of A-2186 (p < 0.01), whereas Biomed Silicone showed reduced tensile strength and elongation but enhanced tear strength. Conclusion: A-2186 demonstrated greater resilience and flexibility, making it a more suitable choice for maxillofacial prostheses. Controlled pigment addition is essential to preserve mechanical integrity and achieve long-term esthetic and functional success.

Keywords: A-2186, Biomed Silicone, RTV silicone, Tensile strength, Tear strength, Elongation

How to Cite?: Dr. Muhsina T, Dr. R. Ravichandran, "Evaluation of Effect of Intrinsic Pigment on Tensile Strength, Tear Strength and Percentage of Elongation in Two Commercially Available Room Temperature Vulcanizing Maxillofacial Silicone Elastomers - An Invitro Study", Volume 14 Issue 11, November 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 917-922, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251010004540, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251010004540