Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to disperse europium oxide (Eu(2)O(3)) in a resin composite (RC) using a planetary centrifugal mixer and assess its effects on photoluminescence and mechanical properties. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A commercially available RC was mixed with Eu(2)O(3) at various concentrations using a planetary centrifugal mixer. The fabricated samples were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy and a spectrofluorometer to assess their crystal structures, particle sizes, and photoluminescence properties. Vickers microhardness measurements were performed, along with a three-point bending test. Statistical analyses were performed to assess the mechanical properties. RESULTS: The intensity of red fluorescence increased with the increase of europium oxide concentration. The fluorescence spectra at 613 and 620 nm exhibited higher intensities under excitation at 254 nm. Eu(2)O(3) was dispersed in RC regardless of the Eu(2)O(3) concentration, and no aggregation was observed. Regarding the mechanical properties, there were no significant differences in the flexural strength or modulus, and the Vickers hardness gradually increased with increasing Eu(2)O(3) concentration. CONCLUSION: To mix Eu(2)O(3) with RC, visible fluorescence emission was observed even with increasing the Eu(2)O(3) concentration, and the mechanical properties of RC were unaffected. Based on our study, a 15 wt% concentration of Eu₂O₃ is the appropriate concentration, as it achieves strong fluorescence emission without compromising the mechanical properties or color tone of the RC.