The comparison of relative reliability on biaxial and three point flexure strength methods of light curing composite resin

The majority of studies comparing the mechanical properties of brittle dental restorative materials now include use of the Weibull Modulus (m). This modulus is determined from analysis of the statistical distribution of strength measurements, which can be determined using a variety of methods, including biaxial flexure, 3pt bend and 4pt bend. In comparing materials it is usually implicitly assumed that the modulus (m) is independent of test method although it is recognised to be highly dependent on flaw distributions. However, in some cases flaw distributions can be modified by sample preparation and test method may modify stressing patterns. This study investigated the pattern of strength and m in two light setting materials.