Filler systems based on calcium metaphosphates

Calcium metaphosphates (CMP's)--a unique class of phosphate minerals possessing polymeric structures, [Ca(PO3)2]n, and having refractive indices of approximately 1.54-1.59-- are optically compatible with resins such as BIS-GMA. In this study, several types of CMP's were prepared and evaluated for their potential as fillers for visible-light-activated (VLA) dental composites. The vitreous (V) and beta-crystalline forms of CMP were prepared by controlled thermolysis of monocalcium phosphate monohydrate, Ca(H2PO4)2.H2O. Hybrid fillers were also prepared by thermal methods. Fillers, characterized by IR spectroscopy and optical microscopy, were prepared in several size ranges (e.g., 1-100 microns). VLA composites were formulated by use of both untreated and surface modified CMP's. V-CMP and its hybrids yielded composites which expanded when stored in water but were of low strength, e.g., diametral tensile strength, (DTS) = 8 MPa. beta-CMP composites were more moisture-resistant, had higher DTS's (from 12 to 33 MPa), and showed a tendency to arrest brittle fracture. These novel fillers have potential uses in resin-based materials such as dental composites, cements, and adhesives.