Structure of Zinc Phosphate Dental Cement

Abstract

The zinc phosphate cement structure consists of excess zinc oxide particles in a non-crystalline, amorphous phosphate matrix. Crystals of hopeite (Zn 3 (PO 4 ) 2 ·4H 2 O) can grow from the cement surface if excess water is present. Extensive pores and surface layers of crystals, which are dependent on moisture conditions, affect the strength and adhesive properties of the cement.