Dental glass ionomer cement consistency and film thickness

This comparative study is to evaluate consistency and film thickness for Iraqi made (Ashour) glass ionomer cement (GIC) and five different types glass ionomer cement and to compare these materials with each other and with British Standard Specification (BS Sp.) no.(6039) in (1981).
In this study the following materials were used:
1.Ashour,Ketac, QD and Meron glass ionomer cements are type "1" (luting materials) according to manufacturer instructions.
2. Ionodent and Hybond glass ionomer cements are type "2" (filling materials) according to manufacturer instructions.
The tests were done by using specimens of tested materials prepared by the aid of metal moulds, which are manufactured for each test according to specification.
Electronic balance was used to calculate the amount of powder that must be mixed with (0.5) ml of liquid to provide consistency value within the range of specification.
Glass slab, stainless steel mixing spatula and micrometer were used for measuring the film thickness,while vernier used instead of micrometer for measuring the consistency. Cabinet was made of wood and glass manufactured for providing (by using of atmospheric thermometer and hygrometer) the temperature and humidity necessary for each test.
The results showed that there is a significant difference between different treatment groups. Further results showed that some tested materials exhibit a significant difference between each other and with specification.
The comparative study found that the filling materials which are tested have physical properties of luting materials and there are some variations in these properties of all tested materials from those which are illustrated in the manufacturer leaflets and in the specification.