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Optimizing Post-Curing Protocols for 3D-Printed Dental Models: A Long-Term Evaluation of Mechanical and Physical Properties
Optimizing Post-Curing Protocols for 3D-Printed Dental Models: A Long-Term Evaluation of Mechanical and Physical Properties
Irina Besliu Bancescu
(Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering and Robotics, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania)
Roxana Gheorghita
(Faculty of Medicine and Biological Sciences, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania)
Alexandru Nemtoi
(Faculty of Medicine and Biological Sciences, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania)
Journal: Engineering Proceedings
•
• MDPI AG
• ISSN: 2673-4591
Abstract
This study evaluated the influence of post-polymerization duration and a 14-day aging period on the mechanical and physical properties of 3D-printed standard resin models. Methods: Specimens were printed using Anycubic resin (50 µm layers) and post-cured for 5, 7, and 10 min. Evaluations included mass variation, chromatic stability, confocal microscopy, and point-indentation tests using a Kistler 9257B dynamometer. Extended post-curing significantly enhanced structural stability. The 10-min aged group (O10) achieved the highest failure threshold at 1862.93 N (a 44% increase from baseline) and the most homogeneous microtopography (Z = 0.0826 mm). A 10-min post-curing cycle is the optimal threshold for maximizing mechanical resilience and minimizing volatile-induced mass loss in standard 3D-printed resins.