The usage of Į-cordierite ceramic in denture base poly (methyl methacrylate) as
reinforcement is never been reported in open literature. The aim of this study attempted to
investigate the effects of Į-cordierite on environmental properties of PMMA denture base
material, also study the influence of environmental exposure on flexural properties. The Įcordierite was treated with silane coupling agent. According to the standard dental laboratory
application, the samples were prepared by adding Į-cordierite powder (0, 5, 10, and 15 wt%,
respectively) to the MMA monomer and PMMA mixed by hand. The blend at dough stage
packed to fill moulds. The samples were tested for environmental properties after soaking for
28 days in water and simulated body fluid. Flexural strength was investigated for PMMA
matrix sample and composites samples before and after immersion in water and SBF. The
morphology of the specimens was investigated by scanning electron microscope . The results
showed that the samples which continued with the treated filler showed higher water

absorption. Also, the absorption of simulated body fluid was found to be more in the samples
that contained treated filler. But, the solubility of simulated body fluid was less in the
composites samples. The flexural properties in all samples were decreased after immersion.
Keywords: poly (methyl methacrylate), Į-cordierite, environmental exposure, flexural
strength, simulated body fluid.

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