COLOR AND COLOR STABILITY AS ALLOY DESIGN CRITERIA.

The paper addresses the problem of measuring alloy color and tarnish resistance. Several examples have been used to illustrate how both parameters can be quantified using a computerized spectrophotometer. The indications to date are that alloy color tends to vary in a reasonably systematic manner with composition. However, tarnish proves to be a complex process, sensitive to composition, microstructure, and the tarnishing solution. This study has established a basis for current development efforts on lower-nobility dental alloys where tarnish resistance and color become important design criteria along with hardness, biocompatibility, and corrosion resistance.