Researchers Prof. Dr. Mashriq Fawzi Abdul, faculty member at the College of Dentistry, University of Baghdad, and Assist. Prof. Dr. Nadia Basim Raouf have obtained a patent from the Central Organization for Standardization and Quality Control. This patent is part of Dr. Nadia’s doctoral research, achieved through their success in manufacturing a new nanopolymeric compound.
The patent is applied in the production of dental devices made from polymethyl methacrylate resins in general, and specifically in improving the clinical outcomes of jawbone orthopedic devices used before surgery—particularly for newborn children suffering from cleft lip and palate deformities. The innovation enhances antifungal and antibacterial properties, representing an important and novel preventive measure to reduce microbial infections that could lead to serious health complications and side effects.
The patent involved preparing a new nanopolymeric compound consisting of self-curing acrylic resin powders and nanohalloysite powder, mixed with chlorhexidine to first prepare the nanocomposite, then grafting it in varying ratios into the acrylic. Various microbiological and mechanical tests were conducted to verify the compound’s effectiveness. The results showed remarkable antimicrobial activity against different types of bacteria and fungi, achieving the highest inhibition levels. Importantly, the mechanical properties of the acrylic material were not affected, allowing for its potential use in many medical applications
