Polyvinylsiloxaan

Polyvinylsiloxaan, also known as polyvinylsiloxane (PVS), is a silicone-based polymer used primarily as an elastomeric impression material in dentistry. It consists of vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane chains that are crosslinked through hydrosiloxane groups in a platinum-catalyzed addition-cure system. The material is usually supplied as two pastes: a base paste containing the vinyl-terminated polymer and filler, and a catalyst/crosslinking paste containing a hydride-functional siloxane and a platinum catalyst. When mixed, the hydrosilylation reaction crosslinks the polymer network, producing a dimensionally stable, elastic impression.

PVS is known for high dimensional stability, excellent elastic recovery, and low long-term shrinkage compared with older elastomeric materials. It is generally hydrophobic, which can reduce wettability on impression surfaces, though surfactants are often included to improve this property. Depending on formulation, PVS grades range from light-body to heavy-body viscosities for different impression techniques, and set times vary across products.

Uses include dental impressions for crowns, bridges, implants, and in some clinics for anterior and posterior restorations. The material's accuracy, stability, and relatively clean handling have made it a standard in modern dentistry, often preferred over polysulfide and polyether materials in many workflows.

Safety and handling: PVS is a cured silicone elastomer and is considered biocompatible for oral use when used as directed. After setting, excess material is trimmed, and the impression is poured with dental stone or scanned for fabrication processes. Environmental considerations focus on standard polymer waste management.

If you are seeking details on a specific polyvinylsiloxan variant (viscosity, working time, or setting time), consult the product data sheet for that formulation.