Mechanical properties of glass-fibre-reinforced composite posts after laser irradiation with different energy densities.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the surface treatments on flexural strengths and flexural modulus of glass-fibre-reinforced composite (GFRC) posts. Sixty-three posts were randomly divided into 9 groups (n = 7), and various surface treatments were performed. The control group was left untreated. Other groups were treated with 9% hydrofluoric acid, sandblasting with 120 µm Al2 O3 particles and Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation with different powers (1 W, 2 W, 3 W, 4 W, 5 W and 6 W). The samples were subjected to 3-point bending test, and data were calculated. Statistical analysis was performed. The flexural strengths of fibre posts treated with sandblasting, hydrofluoric acid, 1 W and 2 W laser were statistically similar with control group (P > 0.01). However, the flexural strength of fibre posts treated with 3 W, 4 W, 5 W and 6 W laser was statistically lower than control group (P < 0.01). High laser irradiations cause melting on the post surface and breaks in fibrils.