Camphorquinone
Pronunciation: kam-for-KWIN-own
Also written as: CQ
The most common photoinitiator in visible-light-cured dental resins, absorbing maximally at approximately 468 nm in the blue-light spectrum.
Full Definition
Camphorquinone (CQ) is a yellow diketone compound derived from camphor and used as the principal photoinitiator in the majority of conventional visible-light-cured dental composite resins and adhesives. Its absorption peak near 468 nm coincides with the emission peak of halogen and blue LED curing units. A notable drawback frequently discussed in dental literature is that residual camphorquinone can impart a yellow tint to the cured material if the degree of conversion is insufficient. Editors should note the single-word, unhyphenated spelling and expand the abbreviation CQ on first use where it appears in manuscripts.
Usage
Usage note: Spell as one unhyphenated word: 'camphorquinone'. The abbreviation CQ should be expanded on first use. Authors sometimes incorrectly use 'camphor quinone' (two words); correct to single word.
In Context
- "The yellow discolouration observed in Group A samples was attributed to residual camphorquinone due to insufficient cure depth." — Discussion section, shade-stability study
- "The copy editor corrected 'camphor quinone' to the standard single-word form 'camphorquinone' throughout the manuscript." — Editing log, restorative dentistry article