Which of the following is the most important in strength of ZOE?
Liquid powder ratio
Temperature of mixing stab
Speed of mixing
Addition of few drops of water
The solubility of the set cement is highest among the cements (0.4 to 1.5 % wt). They disintegrate in oral fluids. This breakdown is due to hydrolysis of the zinc eugenolate matrix to form zinc hydroxide and eugenol. Solubility is reduced by increasing the powder/liquid (P/L) ratio.