Influence of sandblasting and bonding on the shear bond strength between differently pigmented polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and veneering composite after artificial aging.

OBJECTIVE

Achieving a strong bond between Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and veneering composites is challenging due to PEEKs low surface energy. This study examined the effects of sandblasting and bonding on the shear bond strength (SBS) between veneering composite and pigmented PEEK, considering artificial aging.

METHODS

Of three pigmented PEEK compounds (DC4420R, DC4450R, DC4470R; Evonic Operations GmbH, Marl, Germany), 40 specimens each were milled and polished up to 2500 grit. Prior to veneering, specimens were divided into 4 subgroups: Subgroup 1: Polishing; 2: Polishing + bonding; 3: Sandblasting; 4: Sandblasting + bonding. Sandblasting was performed using Al2O3. Adhesive was an agent containing MMA (Signum Universal Bond, Kulzer GmbH, Hanau, Germany). After veneering (Composite, Kulzer GmbH) the subgroups were divided into 2 subgroups. One subgroup was immersed in 37 °C warm distilled water for 24 h. The second subgroup was artificially aged by thermocycling (TCL) with 5000 cycles in distilled water (5 °C / 55 °C; 30 s). Surface roughness, water contact angles and failure modes were recorded. SBS was measured using a universal testing machine.

RESULTS

Results demonstrated that the combination of sandblasting and bonding significantly improved the SBS compared to polishing alone. PEEK color did not significantly influence the SBS. Aging by TCL had a negative effect on the SBS.

SIGNIFICANCE: Sandblasting and the use of an adhesive containing MMA were found to be effective in achieving satisfactory SBS between veneering composite and pigmented PEEK surfaces. These pretreatment methods demonstrate their potential for establishing durable and reliable bonding in clinical applications.