Karsten Manterys

Dr. Karsten Manterys


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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14 July 2026 in Materials
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
SWSandra Wąsik
Sandra Wąsik
RBRafał Bielas
Rafał Bielas
RWRoksana Wygoda
Roksana Wygoda
MWMateusz Wojciechowski
Mateusz Wojciechowski
MTMagdalena Tarnacka
Magdalena Tarnacka
Małgorzata KarolusMałgorzata Karolus
Małgorzata Karolus
Bruxism-induced wear and microbial colonization of oral splints remain significant challenges in restorative dentistry. In this study, we developed a series of antibacterial nanocomposites based on a poly(ethylene terephthalate-co-1,4-cyclohexanedimethylene terephthalate) (PET-G) matrix incorporated with zinc oxide (ZnO) particles (3, 7, and 10 wt%), designed for the next generation of oral appliances. The composites were fabricated via a solvent-casting method followed by thermal processing. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed that the amorphous nature and glass transition temperature (Tg ≈ 80 °C) of the PET-G matrix remained stable, ensuring excellent processability. While a minor decrease in Shore D hardness and flexural strength (up to 15%) was observed due to filler-induced structural discontinuity, the mechanical integrity remained within clinically acceptable limits. Crucially, the PET-G/ZnO composites exhibited potent antimicrobial activity; the 7 and 10 wt% loadings achieved a 100% reduction in Streptococcus oralis viability and significant inhibition of Candida albicans. These findings demonstrate that ZnO integration provides a dual-functional advantage—maintaining the thermoplastic versatility of PET-G while introducing critical bioactive properties, positioning these materials as a superior alternative for effective long-term bruxism therapy.