Authors : Akogu Yakubu; Iwuji S. C.; Eyarefe O. S.; Chibuzo Virginia Anulika

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 3 - March

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/rfrtck4y

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/bdhy8cjv

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26mar1463

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Abstract : Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) remains the cornerstone material in dental education for fabricating typodonts and prosthetic bases due to its favourable aesthetic and processing properties (Noori et al., 2023). However, its susceptibility to fracture and surface wear under conditions of repetitive clinical simulation limits its long-term functional durability (Koppaka et al., 2024). This study investigates the reinforcement of self-curing acrylic resin using eggshell-derived calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) as a sustainable bio-filler. Eggshells, a globally abundant poultry by-product composed of approximately 95% CaCO₃, were processed into a micro-filler and incorporated into the PMMA matrix at varying weight percentages (Boloor et al., 2025). Using a room-temperature polymerisation protocol and silicone moulding techniques, the composite specimens demonstrated improved surface hardness and structural rigidity attributable to restricted polymer chain mobility induced by the rigid bio-filler particles (Syafrinani, 2022). This research provides a cost-effective, eco-friendly framework for producing high-durability dental training models, particularly relevant for resource-limited educational settings in sub-Saharan Africa and other developing regions.

Keywords : Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), Eggshell Powder (ESP), Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃), Dental Education, BioFiller, Typodont, Sustainable Dentistry, Acrylic Resin Reinforcement.

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