Effect of alternative sonochemical treatment on zirconia surface and bond strength with veneering ceramic

The morphological characterization of sonochemical treatment on bond strength of Y-TZP/veneer ceramic was evaluated. The surface topography and roughness were analyzed by Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy. The phase transformation was identified through Micro-Raman Spectroscopy. The specimens were subjected to the Shear Bond Strength (SBS) test. Failure modes were classified and examined by Fractographic analysis. No differences were observed between the groups regarding surface roughness. The C (control) and AOX (sandblasting) groups presented the highest median SBS values, which were significantly different from S40 (sonication with 40% nominal power) which showed the lowest median SBS value. All specimens exhibited phase transformation. Most specimens exhibited mixed failures. Although the alternative sonochemical treatment did not lead to sufficient bond strength at Y-TZP/veneer ceramic, it caused less damage to the ceramic surface than sandblasting. Therefore, only liner use seemed to be better than adding the sonochemical treatment.