Influência de pigmentos nas propriedades de um silicone para prótese facial submetido ao envelhecimento.

Abstract

Silastic® MDX4-4210 is one of materials most widely used in the world for facial prosthesis due to its properties, however, it has some limitations, that reduce its lifespan. The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of pigments in the properties of a silicone for facial prosthesis subjected to accelerated aging. 288 samples were manufactured and divided in three groups: the control group (CG) consisting of Silastic® MDX4-4210 silicon samples without pigment and experimental groups G1 and G2. Group 1 (G1), consisted of Silastic® MDX4-4210 silicone samples, with makeup pigment powder and Group 2 (G2) consisting of silicone samples with the addition of a solution of Bixin (Bixa orellana L). Each group consisted of 24 specimens: 09 units for the characterizations and 15 units for mechanical tests. Seventy-two specimens were selected for further evaluation prior to accelerated aging. The 216 remaining specimens were subjected to accelerated aging by exposure to UV,temperature and humidity cycles (UV/T/U) for 120, 240 and 1000 hours. The samples were characterized by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, Cytotoxicity assays, Sorption and Enzyme Biodegradation. Mechanical tests were also performed (Shore A hardness, tear resistance and tensile strength, elastic modulus and elongation to break). Data were analyzed and average, mean, median and standard deviation values were obtained. The data showed that no significant changes were observed in the color or texture in different periods of accelerated aging. In general, the material became tougher, stiffer, more rigid and less ductile, with aging but maintained a percentage deformation exceeding 100-120%. Despite the changes caused by aging changes the mechanical properties of the aged material remained suitable for the proposed application.There were no significant differences in the proprerties of the materials pigmented with either makeup or bixin.