This Project Grant award from the National Science Foundation (CFDA 47.084 - NSF Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships) to the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) focuses on advancing 3D printing techniques for zirconia dental restorations. The $550,000 award supports the development of innovative methods to enhance the adhesion of 3D printed zirconia to dental cements, a longstanding challenge due to zirconia's smooth, non-etchable surface. The project aims to integrate customized micro-patterns and micro-porosity on the inner crown surfaces using sophisticated 3D printing technologies to improve mechanical interlocking and the overall retention and durability of dental crowns. Additionally, the project will investigate an ultra-fast de-binding and sintering technology to reduce manufacturing time, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the 3D printing processes for dental restorations. The anticipated technical results include validated improvements in crown adhesion strength and reduced production time without compromising quality.
Generated 3/4/25, 6:57 AM