In self-curing composites, which component serves as the activator?

In self-curing composites, which component serves as the activator?

• A. Camphorquinone
• B. HEMA
• C. Bis-GMA
• D. Tertiary amine

Answer: (D)

Self-curing composites rely on a chemical initiator system where an organic peroxide decomposes to form radicals that start polymerization. The tertiary amine acts as the activator, reacting with the peroxide to generate initiating radicals that propagate the resin cure. Camphorquinone is a photoinitiator used in light-cured materials and requires light to activate; HEMA and Bis-GMA are resin monomers and do not initiate curing. Thus, the component that serves as the activator is the tertiary amine.

Self-curing composites rely on a chemical initiator system where an organic peroxide decomposes to form radicals that start polymerization. The tertiary amine acts as the activator, reacting with the peroxide to generate initiating radicals that propagate the resin cure. Camphorquinone is a photoinitiator used in light-cured materials and requires light to activate; HEMA and Bis-GMA are resin monomers and do not initiate curing. Thus, the component that serves as the activator is the tertiary amine.