Effect of conventional water-bath and experimental microwave polymerization cycles on the flexural properties of denture base acrylic resins.

The effect of polymerization cycles on flexural properties of conventional (Vipi Cril(®)-VC) or microwave-processed (Vipi Wave(®)-VW) denture base acrylic resins was evaluated. Specimens (n=10) were submitted to the cycles: WB=65ºC for 1 h+1 h boiling water (VC cycle); M630/25=10 min at 270 W+5 min at 0 W+10 min at 360 W (VW cycle); M650/5=5 min at 650 W; M700/4=4 min at 700 W; and M550/3=3 min at 550 W. Specimens were submitted to a three-point bending test at 5 mm/min until fracture. Flexural strength (MPa) and elastic modulus (GPa) data were analyzed by 2-way ANOVA/Tukey HSD (α=0.05). Overall, VC showed higher values than VW. The results obtained with microwave polymerization did not differ from those obtained with water-bath for both acrylic resins. The results observed when polymerization cycles using medium power and shorter time were used did not differ from those when manufacturer's recommended microwave cycle was applied. Conventional VC might be microwave-processed without compromising its flexural properties.