Degree of Conversion
Also written as: DC — Degree of Conversion
The proportion of reactive carbon–carbon double bonds (C=C) within a resin monomer that have been converted to single bonds upon polymerisation, expressed as a percentage.
Full Definition
Degree of conversion (DC) is a fundamental measure of polymerisation efficiency in resin-based dental materials. It is most commonly determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), comparing the ratio of aliphatic C=C bonds before and after curing. A higher degree of conversion generally indicates better mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and reduced monomer release. However, achieving 100% conversion is practically impossible due to network vitrification; values of 55–75% are typical for dental composites. Editors should be aware that DC is reported as a percentage and should not be confused with depth of cure (a spatial measure) or filler loading (a compositional measure). FTIR is the preferred acronym in methods sections.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviate as DC after first use; ensure FTIR is identified as the analytical method when DC values are reported.
In Context
- "FTIR analysis revealed a degree of conversion of 68% for the experimental resin after 20 seconds of irradiation." — Research article — methods section
- "The degree of conversion, not the depth of cure, was the parameter under investigation in this spectroscopic study." — Peer-review editorial clarification