| 摘要 |
<p>An apparatus is presented for the rapid curing of resinous materials by application of energy from an external source to excite polymerization in a polymerizable system. The apparatus comprises generally a shape-forming die, a conveyor and at least one inert gas lamp source arranged at a predetermined distance from the shape-forming die to irradiate material being conveyed therethrough. Preferably, the inert gas lamp source is at least one inert gas flash lamp or laser source. In accordance with the present invention, the inert gas flash lamp emits pulse radiation of very high energy and power peaks. Preferably, the spectral output of the inert gas flash lamp is in the range between about 380 nm and about 550 nm. The radiant energy emitted by the present apparatus is diffused or flooded to produce an even distribution of light intensity over the material as it passes through the path of the light. The apparatus of the present invention achieves very fast cure rates, high degree of cure, greater depth of penetration, low heat buildup and instant on-off capability and is particularly suitable for the curing of dental materials comprising filled or unfilled resin(s) having at least one ethylenically unsaturated group, in particular acrylate, methacrylate or vinyl groups.</p> |
