A study of the volumetric setting shrinkage of some dental materials.

The setting reaction of six dental materials has been studied by using a water dilatometer at 25 degrees and 37 degrees C. Where there is no water absorption during the test, the method gives reproducible values of the setting shrinkage and at the same time shows a clear physical picture of the entire setting process. This method is suitable for adaptation as a specification test for setting shrinkage and has good potential for being used as a supplementary or substitute test for initial and final set times.