ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: The main objective of this study was to reexamine the mechanical properties of elastomeric chains after stretching in various artificial saliva solutions and in air. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five brands of elastomeric chain manufactured by different companies were selected. For each brand, four types were tested in different artificial media. A dismountable test kit was used to stretch the chains up to various initial force levels. They were then immersed in pre-prepared solutions, with control samples exposed to air only. Residual force was measured at multiple time points using a hand-held dynamometer. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The force delivered by the elastomeric chains decayed rapidly and differently over time. This decay varied depending on multiple factors, discussed here.
