Restorative & Materials · single question

How can the setting time of alginate impression material be ACCELERATED?

  1. Use warmer water during mixing
  2. Use less powder relative to water
  3. Use colder water during mixing
  4. Use more water relative to powder
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Correct answer: A. Use warmer water during mixing

Alginate is an irreversible hydrocolloid impression material. Its setting reaction (precipitation of calcium alginate) is temperature-dependent. Using warmer water increases the rate of the chemical reaction, shortening the setting time. Conversely, cold water slows the reaction and extends working and setting time. The water-to-powder ratio primarily affects consistency and properties; using less powder (thinner mix) makes it more fluid but does not reliably accelerate setting. Retarders such as sodium phosphate can be added to slow setting. Manufacturers also add accelerators (calcium sulfate) and retarders (sodium phosphate) to control setting time.

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