Mechanical properties of bone cement and castor oil-based polyurethane with and without a catalyst

The mechanical properties of castor oil-based polyurethane was evaluated considering post-production time and the presence of a catalyst as variables and using bone cement (polymethylmetacrylate) as a comparative pattern. According to proof body type (cylinders or bars) and the used polymer, three experimental groups were established. Such groups were later subdivided according to post-production time, namely, 24, 48, and 72 hours. A compression assay analyzed maximum load and tension, and a folding assay evaluated the folding module and resistance. There were no statistical differences in the values for resistance to compression or folding at 24, 48, and 72 hours after the production of polymethylmetacrylate and polyurethane with or without a catalyst. Castor oil-based polyurethane with a catalyst showed to be the most resistant during the compression assays as its folding module was similar to that of polymethylmetacrylate, and its folding resistance was higher than that of polyurethane without a catalyst. In conclusion, time did not change the mechanical properties of the evaluated composites; the catalyst improved the mechanical performance of castor oil-based polyurethane; castor oil-based polyurethane with a catalyst supported more load during the assay for mechanical resistance to compression than did polymethylmetacrylate.