Standardization of a polyurethane elastomer for facial prostheses

This study has shown that the polyester urethane elastomers are soft and flexible, characteristics which are desirable for simulating soft facial tissue. In addition, this material was found to have a larger resistance-to-tear when compared with other materials. The physical and mechanical properties are very sensitive to the composition and the amount of catalyst added. Less influence on the elastomer properties was noticed for the range of temperatures at which it was polymerized. The range of curing time used in this study shows no significant statistical difference on the elastomer properties. Future studies will be directed toward the polymerization of the material at a wider range of times and temperatures to determine the effects at the low and high ends of the range.