Are you interested in materials research? The Dr. J Murray Gavel Center, established in 1992, is dedicated to in-vitro research in restorative dental materials and is open to all TUSDM researchers. The Center is located in DHS 833 and is staffed full-time with a research technician for assistance. The equipment available for use in the Gavel lab includes:
- Instron® 5566A – a universal testing machine that is used to evaluate mechanical properties of materials, including compressive, shear bond, and tensile strength tests.
- EcoMet™ 250 – a grinding machine that uses abrasive paper to expose specimen enamel and/or dentin.
- IsoMet™ 1000 – a precision cutter designed for sectioning various types of materials.
- MicroMet® 2104 – tests Vickers hardness through micro-indentation.
- VWR™ Thermocycler – mimics the environment of the mouth by transferring samples through hot and cold water baths, simulating material aging.
- Olympus® Crystaleye Spectrophotomer – used in color analysis.
- Orion Star™ A214 – measures solution concentrations of Fluoride and pH.
- Olympus SZX16 – a stereo microscope used for visual analysis.
- High and low-speed drill setups – each equipped with an air and water syringe.
Contact the Gavel Center’s technician, Dr. Mona Patel (617-636-0332 or Mona.Patel@tufts.edu), to schedule lab usage. Institutional Review Board (IRB) clearance and safety training are required before any work can begin.
Common Testing Methods:
- Compressive Strength
- Shear Bond Strength
- Tensile Strength
- Deflection Studies
- Dental Material Instruments and Equipment
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
- Water Absorption and Solubility
- Microleakage
- Three-Point Bend
- Fluoride Release
- Influence of pH on Dental Materials
- Demineralization
Commonly Tested Materials:
- Cements
- Base/Liners
- Composites
- Implants
- Adhesive Systems
- Tissue Management Materials
- Various Indirect Restorative Materials
- Impression Materials
- Provisional Materials
- Glass Ionomers and RMGCIs
- Prosthetic Materials
- Endodontic Materials
- Orthodontic Materials