Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications

preprint OA: closed CC-BY-4.0

Abstract

This review summarizes current knowledge on both the most used photoinitiator system in dental resin (camphorquinone) and the alternative photoinitiator systems employed in dentistry. The review focuses on polymerization mechanisms, in vitro evaluation techniques, and factors that influence the degree of conversion and hardness of dental resin-based materials. A comprehensive electronic literature search was performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Elsevier databases, covering publications from 1984 to 2025. More than 30 articles were selected based on their relevance to the scope of this review. Light-activated dental resin-based composites (RBCs) represent the most widely used restorative materials in clinical practice. However, effective polymerization of each photoinitiator system depends on the use of a compatible light-curing unit with an appropriate emission spectrum. Changes in the photoinitiator system can markedly affect the biomechanical properties of dental resins, including degree of conversion, hardness, and biocompatibility. This review provides a comparative analysis of RBCs formulated with different photoinitiators, such as camphorquinone, benzophenone, 1-phenyl-1,2-propanedione, trimethylbenzoyl-diphenylphosphine oxide, and benzoyl peroxide. The main objective of this article was to highlight alternative photoinitiators capable of overcoming the color drawbacks of camphorquinone, particularly yellow discoloration, while maintaining comparable mechanical performance. Although current evidence suggests that no alternative photoinitiator fully matches the effectiveness of camphorquinone, certain systems—such as benzoyl germanium derivatives and novel acylphosphine oxide photoinitiators used in combination with camphorquinone—appear promising for enhancing esthetic properties and increasing the degree of conversion of dental RBCs.
Full text 140,722 characters · extracted from preprint-html · click to expand
Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based... | F1000Research "use strict";function _typeof(t){return(_typeof="function"==typeof Symbol&&"symbol"==typeof Symbol.iterator?function(t){return typeof t}:function(t){return t&&"function"==typeof Symbol&&t.constructor===Symbol&&t!==Symbol.prototype?"symbol":typeof t})(t)}!function(){var t=function(){var t,e,o=[],n=window,r=n;for(;r;){try{if(r.frames.__tcfapiLocator){t=r;break}}catch(t){}if(r===n.top)break;r=r.parent}t||(!function t(){var e=n.document,o=!!n.frames.__tcfapiLocator;if(!o)if(e.body){var r=e.createElement("iframe");r.style.cssText="display:none",r.name="__tcfapiLocator",e.body.appendChild(r)}else setTimeout(t,5);return!o}(),n.__tcfapi=function(){for(var t=arguments.length,n=new Array(t),r=0;r 3&&2===parseInt(n[1],10)&&"boolean"==typeof n[3]&&(e=n[3],"function"==typeof n[2]&&n[2]("set",!0)):"ping"===n[0]?"function"==typeof n[2]&&n[2]({gdprApplies:e,cmpLoaded:!1,cmpStatus:"stub"}):o.push(n)},n.addEventListener("message",(function(t){var e="string"==typeof t.data,o={};if(e)try{o=JSON.parse(t.data)}catch(t){}else o=t.data;var n="object"===_typeof(o)&&null!==o?o.__tcfapiCall:null;n&&window.__tcfapi(n.command,n.version,(function(o,r){var a={__tcfapiReturn:{returnValue:o,success:r,callId:n.callId}};t&&t.source&&t.source.postMessage&&t.source.postMessage(e?JSON.stringify(a):a,"*")}),n.parameter)}),!1))};"undefined"!=typeof module?module.exports=t:t()}(); dataLayer = dataLayer || []; // Standard GTM initialization - Google Consent Mode handles consent automatically (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start': new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0], j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src= 'https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl+ '>m_auth=hzk0Vc3qFsQYhCrIoHz68A>m_preview=env-1>m_cookies_win=x';f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f); })(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-MWFK8L5J'); ;window.NREUM||(NREUM={});NREUM.init={distributed_tracing:{enabled:true},privacy:{cookies_enabled:true},ajax:{deny_list:["bam.nr-data.net"]}}; ;NREUM.loader_config={accountID:"438030",trustKey:"438030",agentID:"772317073",licenseKey:"97f8f67f26",applicationID:"772317073"} ;NREUM.info={beacon:"bam.nr-data.net",errorBeacon:"bam.nr-data.net",licenseKey:"97f8f67f26",applicationID:"772317073",sa:1} ;/*! For license information please see nr-loader-spa-1.236.0.min.js.LICENSE.txt */ (()=>{"use strict";var e,t,r={5763:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{P_:()=>l,Mt:()=>g,C5:()=>s,DL:()=>v,OP:()=>T,lF:()=>D,Yu:()=>y,Dg:()=>h,CX:()=>c,GE:()=>b,sU:()=>_});var n=r(8632),i=r(9567);const o={beacon:n.ce.beacon,errorBeacon:n.ce.errorBeacon,licenseKey:void 0,applicationID:void 0,sa:void 0,queueTime:void 0,applicationTime:void 0,ttGuid:void 0,user:void 0,account:void 0,product:void 0,extra:void 0,jsAttributes:{},userAttributes:void 0,atts:void 0,transactionName:void 0,tNamePlain:void 0},a={};function s(e){if(!e)throw new Error("All info objects require an agent identifier!");if(!a[e])throw new Error("Info for ".concat(e," was never set"));return a[e]}function c(e,t){if(!e)throw new Error("All info objects require an agent identifier!");a[e]=(0,i.D)(t,o),(0,n.Qy)(e,a[e],"info")}var u=r(7056);const d=()=>{const e={blockSelector:"[data-nr-block]",maskInputOptions:{password:!0}};return{allow_bfcache:!0,privacy:{cookies_enabled:!0},ajax:{deny_list:void 0,enabled:!0,harvestTimeSeconds:10},distributed_tracing:{enabled:void 0,exclude_newrelic_header:void 0,cors_use_newrelic_header:void 0,cors_use_tracecontext_headers:void 0,allowed_origins:void 0},session:{domain:void 0,expiresMs:u.oD,inactiveMs:u.Hb},ssl:void 0,obfuscate:void 0,jserrors:{enabled:!0,harvestTimeSeconds:10},metrics:{enabled:!0},page_action:{enabled:!0,harvestTimeSeconds:30},page_view_event:{enabled:!0},page_view_timing:{enabled:!0,harvestTimeSeconds:30,long_task:!1},session_trace:{enabled:!0,harvestTimeSeconds:10},harvest:{tooManyRequestsDelay:60},session_replay:{enabled:!1,harvestTimeSeconds:60,sampleRate:.1,errorSampleRate:.1,maskTextSelector:"*",maskAllInputs:!0,get blockClass(){return"nr-block"},get ignoreClass(){return"nr-ignore"},get maskTextClass(){return"nr-mask"},get blockSelector(){return e.blockSelector},set blockSelector(t){e.blockSelector+=",".concat(t)},get maskInputOptions(){return e.maskInputOptions},set maskInputOptions(t){e.maskInputOptions={...t,password:!0}}},spa:{enabled:!0,harvestTimeSeconds:10}}},f={};function l(e){if(!e)throw new Error("All configuration objects require an agent identifier!");if(!f[e])throw new Error("Configuration for ".concat(e," was never set"));return f[e]}function h(e,t){if(!e)throw new Error("All configuration objects require an agent identifier!");f[e]=(0,i.D)(t,d()),(0,n.Qy)(e,f[e],"config")}function g(e,t){if(!e)throw new Error("All configuration objects require an agent identifier!");var r=l(e);if(r){for(var n=t.split("."),i=0;i {r.d(t,{D:()=>i});var n=r(50);function i(e,t){try{if(!e||"object"!=typeof e)return(0,n.Z)("Setting a Configurable requires an object as input");if(!t||"object"!=typeof t)return(0,n.Z)("Setting a Configurable requires a model to set its initial properties");const r=Object.create(Object.getPrototypeOf(t),Object.getOwnPropertyDescriptors(t)),o=0===Object.keys(r).length?e:r;for(let a in o)if(void 0!==e[a])try{"object"==typeof e[a]&&"object"==typeof t[a]?r[a]=i(e[a],t[a]):r[a]=e[a]}catch(e){(0,n.Z)("An error occurred while setting a property of a Configurable",e)}return r}catch(e){(0,n.Z)("An error occured while setting a Configurable",e)}}},6818:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{Re:()=>i,gF:()=>o,q4:()=>n});const n="1.236.0",i="PROD",o="CDN"},385:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{FN:()=>a,IF:()=>u,Nk:()=>f,Tt:()=>s,_A:()=>o,il:()=>n,pL:()=>c,v6:()=>i,w1:()=>d});const n="undefined"!=typeof window&&!!window.document,i="undefined"!=typeof WorkerGlobalScope&&("undefined"!=typeof self&&self instanceof WorkerGlobalScope&&self.navigator instanceof WorkerNavigator||"undefined"!=typeof globalThis&&globalThis instanceof WorkerGlobalScope&&globalThis.navigator instanceof WorkerNavigator),o=n?window:"undefined"!=typeof WorkerGlobalScope&&("undefined"!=typeof self&&self instanceof WorkerGlobalScope&&self||"undefined"!=typeof globalThis&&globalThis instanceof WorkerGlobalScope&&globalThis),a=""+o?.location,s=/iPad|iPhone|iPod/.test(navigator.userAgent),c=s&&"undefined"==typeof SharedWorker,u=(()=>{const e=navigator.userAgent.match(/Firefox[/\s](\d+\.\d+)/);return Array.isArray(e)&&e.length>=2?+e[1]:0})(),d=Boolean(n&&window.document.documentMode),f=!!navigator.sendBeacon},1117:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{w:()=>o});var n=r(50);const i={agentIdentifier:"",ee:void 0};class o{constructor(e){try{if("object"!=typeof e)return(0,n.Z)("shared context requires an object as input");this.sharedContext={},Object.assign(this.sharedContext,i),Object.entries(e).forEach((e=>{let[t,r]=e;Object.keys(i).includes(t)&&(this.sharedContext[t]=r)}))}catch(e){(0,n.Z)("An error occured while setting SharedContext",e)}}}},8e3:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{L:()=>d,R:()=>c});var n=r(2177),i=r(1284),o=r(4322),a=r(3325);const s={};function c(e,t){const r={staged:!1,priority:a.p[t]||0};u(e),s[e].get(t)||s[e].set(t,r)}function u(e){e&&(s[e]||(s[e]=new Map))}function d(){let e=arguments.length>0&&void 0!==arguments[0]?arguments[0]:"",t=arguments.length>1&&void 0!==arguments[1]?arguments[1]:"feature";if(u(e),!e||!s[e].get(t))return a(t);s[e].get(t).staged=!0;const r=[...s[e]];function a(t){const r=e?n.ee.get(e):n.ee,a=o.X.handlers;if(r.backlog&&a){var s=r.backlog[t],c=a[t];if(c){for(var u=0;s&&u {let[t,r]=e;return r.staged}))&&(r.sort(((e,t)=>e[1].priority-t[1].priority)),r.forEach((e=>{let[t]=e;a(t)})))}function f(e,t){var r=e[1];(0,i.D)(t[r],(function(t,r){var n=e[0];if(r[0]===n){var i=r[1],o=e[3],a=e[2];i.apply(o,a)}}))}},2177:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{c:()=>f,ee:()=>u});var n=r(8632),i=r(2210),o=r(1284),a=r(5763),s="nr@context";let c=(0,n.fP)();var u;function d(){}function f(e){return(0,i.X)(e,s,l)}function l(){return new d}function h(){u.aborted=!0,u.backlog={}}c.ee?u=c.ee:(u=function e(t,r){var n={},c={},f={},g=!1;try{g=16===r.length&&(0,a.OP)(r).isolatedBacklog}catch(e){}var p={on:b,addEventListener:b,removeEventListener:y,emit:v,get:x,listeners:w,context:m,buffer:A,abort:h,aborted:!1,isBuffering:E,debugId:r,backlog:g?{}:t&&"object"==typeof t.backlog?t.backlog:{}};return p;function m(e){return e&&e instanceof d?e:e?(0,i.X)(e,s,l):l()}function v(e,r,n,i,o){if(!1!==o&&(o=!0),!u.aborted||i){t&&o&&t.emit(e,r,n);for(var a=m(n),s=w(e),d=s.length,f=0;fn,p:()=>i});var n=r(2177).ee.get("handle");function i(e,t,r,i,o){o?(o.buffer([e],i),o.emit(e,t,r)):(n.buffer([e],i),n.emit(e,t,r))}},4322:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{X:()=>o});var n=r(5546);o.on=a;var i=o.handlers={};function o(e,t,r,o){a(o||n.E,i,e,t,r)}function a(e,t,r,i,o){o||(o="feature"),e||(e=n.E);var a=t[o]=t[o]||{};(a[r]=a[r]||[]).push([e,i])}},3239:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{bP:()=>s,iz:()=>c,m$:()=>a});var n=r(385);let i=!1,o=!1;try{const e={get passive(){return i=!0,!1},get signal(){return o=!0,!1}};n._A.addEventListener("test",null,e),n._A.removeEventListener("test",null,e)}catch(e){}function a(e,t){return i||o?{capture:!!e,passive:i,signal:t}:!!e}function s(e,t){let r=arguments.length>2&&void 0!==arguments[2]&&arguments[2],n=arguments.length>3?arguments[3]:void 0;window.addEventListener(e,t,a(r,n))}function c(e,t){let r=arguments.length>2&&void 0!==arguments[2]&&arguments[2],n=arguments.length>3?arguments[3]:void 0;document.addEventListener(e,t,a(r,n))}},4402:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{Ht:()=>u,M:()=>c,Rl:()=>a,ky:()=>s});var n=r(385);const i="xxxxxxxx-xxxx-4xxx-yxxx-xxxxxxxxxxxx";function o(e,t){return e?15&e[t]:16*Math.random()|0}function a(){const e=n._A?.crypto||n._A?.msCrypto;let t,r=0;return e&&e.getRandomValues&&(t=e.getRandomValues(new Uint8Array(31))),i.split("").map((e=>"x"===e?o(t,++r).toString(16):"y"===e?(3&o()|8).toString(16):e)).join("")}function s(e){const t=n._A?.crypto||n._A?.msCrypto;let r,i=0;t&&t.getRandomValues&&(r=t.getRandomValues(new Uint8Array(31)));const a=[];for(var s=0;s {r.d(t,{Bq:()=>n,Hb:()=>o,oD:()=>i});const n="NRBA",i=144e5,o=18e5},7894:(e,t,r)=>{function n(){return Math.round(performance.now())}r.d(t,{z:()=>n})},7243:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{e:()=>o});var n=r(385),i={};function o(e){if(e in i)return i[e];if(0===(e||"").indexOf("data:"))return{protocol:"data"};let t;var r=n._A?.location,o={};if(n.il)t=document.createElement("a"),t.href=e;else try{t=new URL(e,r.href)}catch(e){return o}o.port=t.port;var a=t.href.split("://");!o.port&&a[1]&&(o.port=a[1].split("/")[0].split("@").pop().split(":")[1]),o.port&&"0"!==o.port||(o.port="https"===a[0]?"443":"80"),o.hostname=t.hostname||r.hostname,o.pathname=t.pathname,o.protocol=a[0],"/"!==o.pathname.charAt(0)&&(o.pathname="/"+o.pathname);var s=!t.protocol||":"===t.protocol||t.protocol===r.protocol,c=t.hostname===r.hostname&&t.port===r.port;return o.sameOrigin=s&&(!t.hostname||c),"/"===o.pathname&&(i[e]=o),o}},50:(e,t,r)=>{function n(e,t){"function"==typeof console.warn&&(console.warn("New Relic: ".concat(e)),t&&console.warn(t))}r.d(t,{Z:()=>n})},2587:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{N:()=>c,T:()=>u});var n=r(2177),i=r(5546),o=r(8e3),a=r(3325);const s={stn:[a.D.sessionTrace],err:[a.D.jserrors,a.D.metrics],ins:[a.D.pageAction],spa:[a.D.spa],sr:[a.D.sessionReplay,a.D.sessionTrace]};function c(e,t){const r=n.ee.get(t);e&&"object"==typeof e&&(Object.entries(e).forEach((e=>{let[t,n]=e;void 0===u[t]&&(s[t]?s[t].forEach((e=>{n?(0,i.p)("feat-"+t,[],void 0,e,r):(0,i.p)("block-"+t,[],void 0,e,r),(0,i.p)("rumresp-"+t,[Boolean(n)],void 0,e,r)})):n&&(0,i.p)("feat-"+t,[],void 0,void 0,r),u[t]=Boolean(n))})),Object.keys(s).forEach((e=>{void 0===u[e]&&(s[e]?.forEach((t=>(0,i.p)("rumresp-"+e,[!1],void 0,t,r))),u[e]=!1)})),(0,o.L)(t,a.D.pageViewEvent))}const u={}},2210:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{X:()=>i});var n=Object.prototype.hasOwnProperty;function i(e,t,r){if(n.call(e,t))return e[t];var i=r();if(Object.defineProperty&&Object.keys)try{return Object.defineProperty(e,t,{value:i,writable:!0,enumerable:!1}),i}catch(e){}return e[t]=i,i}},1284:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{D:()=>n});const n=(e,t)=>Object.entries(e||{}).map((e=>{let[r,n]=e;return t(r,n)}))},4351:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{P:()=>o});var n=r(2177);const i=()=>{const e=new WeakSet;return(t,r)=>{if("object"==typeof r&&null!==r){if(e.has(r))return;e.add(r)}return r}};function o(e){try{return JSON.stringify(e,i())}catch(e){try{n.ee.emit("internal-error",[e])}catch(e){}}}},3960:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{K:()=>a,b:()=>o});var n=r(3239);function i(){return"undefined"==typeof document||"complete"===document.readyState}function o(e,t){if(i())return e();(0,n.bP)("load",e,t)}function a(e){if(i())return e();(0,n.iz)("DOMContentLoaded",e)}},8632:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{EZ:()=>u,Qy:()=>c,ce:()=>o,fP:()=>a,gG:()=>d,mF:()=>s});var n=r(7894),i=r(385);const o={beacon:"bam.nr-data.net",errorBeacon:"bam.nr-data.net"};function a(){return i._A.NREUM||(i._A.NREUM={}),void 0===i._A.newrelic&&(i._A.newrelic=i._A.NREUM),i._A.NREUM}function s(){let e=a();return e.o||(e.o={ST:i._A.setTimeout,SI:i._A.setImmediate,CT:i._A.clearTimeout,XHR:i._A.XMLHttpRequest,REQ:i._A.Request,EV:i._A.Event,PR:i._A.Promise,MO:i._A.MutationObserver,FETCH:i._A.fetch}),e}function c(e,t,r){let i=a();const o=i.initializedAgents||{},s=o[e]||{};return Object.keys(s).length||(s.initializedAt={ms:(0,n.z)(),date:new Date}),i.initializedAgents={...o,[e]:{...s,[r]:t}},i}function u(e,t){a()[e]=t}function d(){return function(){let e=a();const t=e.info||{};e.info={beacon:o.beacon,errorBeacon:o.errorBeacon,...t}}(),function(){let e=a();const t=e.init||{};e.init={...t}}(),s(),function(){let e=a();const t=e.loader_config||{};e.loader_config={...t}}(),a()}},7956:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{N:()=>i});var n=r(3239);function i(e){let t=arguments.length>1&&void 0!==arguments[1]&&arguments[1],r=arguments.length>2?arguments[2]:void 0,i=arguments.length>3?arguments[3]:void 0;return void(0,n.iz)("visibilitychange",(function(){if(t)return void("hidden"==document.visibilityState&&e());e(document.visibilityState)}),r,i)}},1214:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{em:()=>v,u5:()=>N,QU:()=>S,_L:()=>I,Gm:()=>L,Lg:()=>M,gy:()=>U,BV:()=>Q,Kf:()=>ee});var n=r(2177);const i="nr@original";var o=Object.prototype.hasOwnProperty,a=!1;function s(e,t){return e||(e=n.ee),r.inPlace=function(e,t,n,i,o){n||(n="");var a,s,c,u="-"===n.charAt(0);for(c=0;c 2?n-2:0),o=2;o {r(A[T],e,w),r(E[T],e,w)})),r(l._A,"fetch",y),t.on(y+"end",(function(e,r){var n=this;if(r){var i=r.headers.get("content-length");null!==i&&(n.rxSize=i),t.emit(y+"done",[null,r],n)}else t.emit(y+"done",[e],n)})),t}const O={},j=["pushState","replaceState"];function S(e){const t=function(e){return(e||n.ee).get("history")}(e);return!l.il||O[t.debugId]++||(O[t.debugId]=1,s(t).inPlace(window.history,j,"-")),t}var P=r(3239);const C={},R=["appendChild","insertBefore","replaceChild"];function I(e){const t=function(e){return(e||n.ee).get("jsonp")}(e);if(!l.il||C[t.debugId])return t;C[t.debugId]=!0;var r=s(t),i=/[?&](?:callback|cb)=([^&#]+)/,o=/(.*)\.([^.]+)/,a=/^(\w+)(\.|$)(.*)$/;function c(e,t){var r=e.match(a),n=r[1],i=r[3];return i?c(i,t[n]):t[n]}return r.inPlace(Node.prototype,R,"dom-"),t.on("dom-start",(function(e){!function(e){if(!e||"string"!=typeof e.nodeName||"script"!==e.nodeName.toLowerCase())return;if("function"!=typeof e.addEventListener)return;var n=(a=e.src,s=a.match(i),s?s[1]:null);var a,s;if(!n)return;var u=function(e){var t=e.match(o);if(t&&t.length>=3)return{key:t[2],parent:c(t[1],window)};return{key:e,parent:window}}(n);if("function"!=typeof u.parent[u.key])return;var d={};function f(){t.emit("jsonp-end",[],d),e.removeEventListener("load",f,(0,P.m$)(!1)),e.removeEventListener("error",l,(0,P.m$)(!1))}function l(){t.emit("jsonp-error",[],d),t.emit("jsonp-end",[],d),e.removeEventListener("load",f,(0,P.m$)(!1)),e.removeEventListener("error",l,(0,P.m$)(!1))}r.inPlace(u.parent,[u.key],"cb-",d),e.addEventListener("load",f,(0,P.m$)(!1)),e.addEventListener("error",l,(0,P.m$)(!1)),t.emit("new-jsonp",[e.src],d)}(e[0])})),t}var k=r(5763);const H={};function L(e){const t=function(e){return(e||n.ee).get("mutation")}(e);if(!l.il||H[t.debugId])return t;H[t.debugId]=!0;var r=s(t),i=k.Yu.MO;return i&&(window.MutationObserver=function(e){return this instanceof i?new i(r(e,"fn-")):i.apply(this,arguments)},MutationObserver.prototype=i.prototype),t}const z={};function M(e){const t=function(e){return(e||n.ee).get("promise")}(e);if(z[t.debugId])return t;z[t.debugId]=!0;var r=n.c,o=s(t),a=k.Yu.PR;return a&&function(){function e(r){var n=t.context(),i=o(r,"executor-",n,null,!1);const s=Reflect.construct(a,[i],e);return t.context(s).getCtx=function(){return n},s}l._A.Promise=e,Object.defineProperty(e,"name",{value:"Promise"}),e.toString=function(){return a.toString()},Object.setPrototypeOf(e,a),["all","race"].forEach((function(r){const n=a[r];e[r]=function(e){let i=!1;[...e||[]].forEach((e=>{this.resolve(e).then(a("all"===r),a(!1))}));const o=n.apply(this,arguments);return o;function a(e){return function(){t.emit("propagate",[null,!i],o,!1,!1),i=i||!e}}}})),["resolve","reject"].forEach((function(r){const n=a[r];e[r]=function(e){const r=n.apply(this,arguments);return e!==r&&t.emit("propagate",[e,!0],r,!1,!1),r}})),e.prototype=a.prototype;const n=a.prototype.then;a.prototype.then=function(){var e=this,i=r(e);i.promise=e;for(var a=arguments.length,s=new Array(a),c=0;c e())),t};function m(e,t){i.inPlace(t,["onreadystatechange"],"fn-",E)}function b(){var e=this,t=r.context(e);e.readyState>3&&!t.resolved&&(t.resolved=!0,r.emit("xhr-resolved",[],e)),i.inPlace(e,f,"fn-",E)}if(function(e,t){for(var r in e)t[r]=e[r]}(o,p),p.prototype=o.prototype,i.inPlace(p.prototype,J,"-xhr-",E),r.on("send-xhr-start",(function(e,t){m(e,t),function(e){h.push(e),a&&(y?y.then(A):u?u(A):(w=-w,x.data=w))}(t)})),r.on("open-xhr-start",m),a){var y=c&&c.resolve();if(!u&&!c){var w=1,x=document.createTextNode(w);new a(A).observe(x,{characterData:!0})}}else t.on("fn-end",(function(e){e[0]&&e[0].type===d||A()}));function A(){for(var e=0;e {r.d(t,{t:()=>n});const n=r(3325).D.ajax},6660:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{A:()=>i,t:()=>n});const n=r(3325).D.jserrors,i="nr@seenError"},3081:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{gF:()=>o,mY:()=>i,t9:()=>n,vz:()=>s,xS:()=>a});const n=r(3325).D.metrics,i="sm",o="cm",a="storeSupportabilityMetrics",s="storeEventMetrics"},4649:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{t:()=>n});const n=r(3325).D.pageAction},7633:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{Dz:()=>i,OJ:()=>a,qw:()=>o,t9:()=>n});const n=r(3325).D.pageViewEvent,i="firstbyte",o="domcontent",a="windowload"},9251:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{t:()=>n});const n=r(3325).D.pageViewTiming},3614:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{BST_RESOURCE:()=>i,END:()=>s,FEATURE_NAME:()=>n,FN_END:()=>u,FN_START:()=>c,PUSH_STATE:()=>d,RESOURCE:()=>o,START:()=>a});const n=r(3325).D.sessionTrace,i="bstResource",o="resource",a="-start",s="-end",c="fn"+a,u="fn"+s,d="pushState"},7836:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{BODY:()=>A,CB_END:()=>E,CB_START:()=>u,END:()=>x,FEATURE_NAME:()=>i,FETCH:()=>_,FETCH_BODY:()=>v,FETCH_DONE:()=>m,FETCH_START:()=>p,FN_END:()=>c,FN_START:()=>s,INTERACTION:()=>l,INTERACTION_API:()=>d,INTERACTION_EVENTS:()=>o,JSONP_END:()=>b,JSONP_NODE:()=>g,JS_TIME:()=>T,MAX_TIMER_BUDGET:()=>a,REMAINING:()=>f,SPA_NODE:()=>h,START:()=>w,originalSetTimeout:()=>y});var n=r(5763);const i=r(3325).D.spa,o=["click","submit","keypress","keydown","keyup","change"],a=999,s="fn-start",c="fn-end",u="cb-start",d="api-ixn-",f="remaining",l="interaction",h="spaNode",g="jsonpNode",p="fetch-start",m="fetch-done",v="fetch-body-",b="jsonp-end",y=n.Yu.ST,w="-start",x="-end",A="-body",E="cb"+x,T="jsTime",_="fetch"},5938:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{W:()=>o});var n=r(5763),i=r(2177);class o{constructor(e,t,r){this.agentIdentifier=e,this.aggregator=t,this.ee=i.ee.get(e,(0,n.OP)(this.agentIdentifier).isolatedBacklog),this.featureName=r,this.blocked=!1}}},9144:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{j:()=>m});var n=r(3325),i=r(5763),o=r(5546),a=r(2177),s=r(7894),c=r(8e3),u=r(3960),d=r(385),f=r(50),l=r(3081),h=r(8632);function g(){const e=(0,h.gG)();["setErrorHandler","finished","addToTrace","inlineHit","addRelease","addPageAction","setCurrentRouteName","setPageViewName","setCustomAttribute","interaction","noticeError","setUserId"].forEach((t=>{e[t]=function(){for(var r=arguments.length,n=new Array(r),i=0;i 1?r-1:0),i=1;i {e.exposed&&e.api[t]&&o.push(e.api[t](...n))})),o.length>1?o:o[0]}(t,...n)}}))}var p=r(2587);function m(e){let t=arguments.length>1&&void 0!==arguments[1]?arguments[1]:{},m=arguments.length>2?arguments[2]:void 0,v=arguments.length>3?arguments[3]:void 0,{init:b,info:y,loader_config:w,runtime:x={loaderType:m},exposed:A=!0}=t;const E=(0,h.gG)();y||(b=E.init,y=E.info,w=E.loader_config),(0,i.Dg)(e,b||{}),(0,i.GE)(e,w||{}),(0,i.sU)(e,x),y.jsAttributes??={},d.v6&&(y.jsAttributes.isWorker=!0),(0,i.CX)(e,y),g();const T=function(e,t){t||(0,c.R)(e,"api");const h={};var g=a.ee.get(e),p=g.get("tracer"),m="api-",v=m+"ixn-";function b(t,r,n,o){const a=(0,i.C5)(e);return null===r?delete a.jsAttributes[t]:(0,i.CX)(e,{...a,jsAttributes:{...a.jsAttributes,[t]:r}}),x(m,n,!0,o||null===r?"session":void 0)(t,r)}function y(){}["setErrorHandler","finished","addToTrace","inlineHit","addRelease"].forEach((e=>h[e]=x(m,e,!0,"api"))),h.addPageAction=x(m,"addPageAction",!0,n.D.pageAction),h.setCurrentRouteName=x(m,"routeName",!0,n.D.spa),h.setPageViewName=function(t,r){if("string"==typeof t)return"/"!==t.charAt(0)&&(t="/"+t),(0,i.OP)(e).customTransaction=(r||"http://custom.transaction")+t,x(m,"setPageViewName",!0)()},h.setCustomAttribute=function(e,t){let r=arguments.length>2&&void 0!==arguments[2]&&arguments[2];if("string"==typeof e){if(["string","number"].includes(typeof t)||null===t)return b(e,t,"setCustomAttribute",r);(0,f.Z)("Failed to execute setCustomAttribute.\nNon-null value must be a string or number type, but a type of was provided."))}else(0,f.Z)("Failed to execute setCustomAttribute.\nName must be a string type, but a type of was provided."))},h.setUserId=function(e){if("string"==typeof e||null===e)return b("enduser.id",e,"setUserId",!0);(0,f.Z)("Failed to execute setUserId.\nNon-null value must be a string type, but a type of was provided."))},h.interaction=function(){return(new y).get()};var w=y.prototype={createTracer:function(e,t){var r={},i=this,a="function"==typeof t;return(0,o.p)(v+"tracer",[(0,s.z)(),e,r],i,n.D.spa,g),function(){if(p.emit((a?"":"no-")+"fn-start",[(0,s.z)(),i,a],r),a)try{return t.apply(this,arguments)}catch(e){throw p.emit("fn-err",[arguments,this,"string"==typeof e?new Error(e):e],r),e}finally{p.emit("fn-end",[(0,s.z)()],r)}}}};function x(e,t,r,i){return function(){return(0,o.p)(l.xS,["API/"+t+"/called"],void 0,n.D.metrics,g),i&&(0,o.p)(e+t,[(0,s.z)(),...arguments],r?null:this,i,g),r?void 0:this}}function A(){r.e(439).then(r.bind(r,7438)).then((t=>{let{setAPI:r}=t;r(e),(0,c.L)(e,"api")})).catch((()=>(0,f.Z)("Downloading runtime APIs failed...")))}return["actionText","setName","setAttribute","save","ignore","onEnd","getContext","end","get"].forEach((e=>{w[e]=x(v,e,void 0,n.D.spa)})),h.noticeError=function(e,t){"string"==typeof e&&(e=new Error(e)),(0,o.p)(l.xS,["API/noticeError/called"],void 0,n.D.metrics,g),(0,o.p)("err",[e,(0,s.z)(),!1,t],void 0,n.D.jserrors,g)},d.il?(0,u.b)((()=>A()),!0):A(),h}(e,v);return(0,h.Qy)(e,T,"api"),(0,h.Qy)(e,A,"exposed"),(0,h.EZ)("activatedFeatures",p.T),T}},3325:(e,t,r)=>{r.d(t,{D:()=>n,p:()=>i});const n={ajax:"ajax",jserrors:"jserrors",metrics:"metrics",pageAction:"page_action",pageViewEvent:"page_view_event",pageViewTiming:"page_view_timing",sessionReplay:"session_replay",sessionTrace:"session_trace",spa:"spa"},i={[n.pageViewEvent]:1,[n.pageViewTiming]:2,[n.metrics]:3,[n.jserrors]:4,[n.ajax]:5,[n.sessionTrace]:6,[n.pageAction]:7,[n.spa]:8,[n.sessionReplay]:9}}},n={};function i(e){var t=n[e];if(void 0!==t)return t.exports;var o=n[e]={exports:{}};return r[e](o,o.exports,i),o.exports}i.m=r,i.d=(e,t)=>{for(var r in t)i.o(t,r)&&!i.o(e,r)&&Object.defineProperty(e,r,{enumerable:!0,get:t[r]})},i.f={},i.e=e=>Promise.all(Object.keys(i.f).reduce(((t,r)=>(i.f[r](e,t),t)),[])),i.u=e=>(({78:"page_action-aggregate",147:"metrics-aggregate",242:"session-manager",317:"jserrors-aggregate",348:"page_view_timing-aggregate",412:"lazy-feature-loader",439:"async-api",538:"recorder",590:"session_replay-aggregate",675:"compressor",733:"session_trace-aggregate",786:"page_view_event-aggregate",873:"spa-aggregate",898:"ajax-aggregate"}[e]||e)+"."+{78:"ac76d497",147:"3dc53903",148:"1a20d5fe",242:"2a64278a",317:"49e41428",348:"bd6de33a",412:"2f55ce66",439:"30bd804e",538:"1b18459f",590:"cf0efb30",675:"ae9f91a8",733:"83105561",786:"06482edd",860:"03a8b7a5",873:"e6b09d52",898:"998ef92b"}[e]+"-1.236.0.min.js"),i.o=(e,t)=>Object.prototype.hasOwnProperty.call(e,t),e={},t="NRBA:",i.l=(r,n,o,a)=>{if(e[r])e[r].push(n);else{var s,c;if(void 0!==o)for(var u=document.getElementsByTagName("script"),d=0;d {s.onerror=s.onload=null,clearTimeout(h);var i=e[r];if(delete e[r],s.parentNode&&s.parentNode.removeChild(s),i&&i.forEach((e=>e(n))),t)return t(n)},h=setTimeout(l.bind(null,void 0,{type:"timeout",target:s}),12e4);s.onerror=l.bind(null,s.onerror),s.onload=l.bind(null,s.onload),c&&document.head.appendChild(s)}},i.r=e=>{"undefined"!=typeof Symbol&&Symbol.toStringTag&&Object.defineProperty(e,Symbol.toStringTag,{value:"Module"}),Object.defineProperty(e,"__esModule",{value:!0})},i.j=364,i.p="https://js-agent.newrelic.com/",(()=>{var e={364:0,953:0};i.f.j=(t,r)=>{var n=i.o(e,t)?e[t]:void 0;if(0!==n)if(n)r.push(n[2]);else{var o=new Promise(((r,i)=>n=e[t]=[r,i]));r.push(n[2]=o);var a=i.p+i.u(t),s=new Error;i.l(a,(r=>{if(i.o(e,t)&&(0!==(n=e[t])&&(e[t]=void 0),n)){var o=r&&("load"===r.type?"missing":r.type),a=r&&r.target&&r.target.src;s.message="Loading chunk "+t+" failed.\n("+o+": "+a+")",s.name="ChunkLoadError",s.type=o,s.request=a,n[1](s)}}),"chunk-"+t,t)}};var t=(t,r)=>{var n,o,[a,s,c]=r,u=0;if(a.some((t=>0!==e[t]))){for(n in s)i.o(s,n)&&(i.m[n]=s[n]);if(c)c(i)}for(t&&t(r);u {i.r(o);var e=i(3325),t=i(5763);const r=Object.values(e.D);function n(e){const n={};return r.forEach((r=>{n[r]=function(e,r){return!1!==(0,t.Mt)(r,"".concat(e,".enabled"))}(r,e)})),n}var a=i(9144);var s=i(5546),c=i(385),u=i(8e3),d=i(5938),f=i(3960),l=i(50);class h extends d.W{constructor(e,t,r){let n=!(arguments.length>3&&void 0!==arguments[3])||arguments[3];super(e,t,r),this.auto=n,this.abortHandler,this.featAggregate,this.onAggregateImported,n&&(0,u.R)(e,r)}importAggregator(){let e=arguments.length>0&&void 0!==arguments[0]?arguments[0]:{};if(this.featAggregate||!this.auto)return;const r=c.il&&!0===(0,t.Mt)(this.agentIdentifier,"privacy.cookies_enabled");let n;this.onAggregateImported=new Promise((e=>{n=e}));const o=async()=>{let t;try{if(r){const{setupAgentSession:e}=await Promise.all([i.e(860),i.e(242)]).then(i.bind(i,3228));t=e(this.agentIdentifier)}}catch(e){(0,l.Z)("A problem occurred when starting up session manager. This page will not start or extend any session.",e)}try{if(!this.shouldImportAgg(this.featureName,t))return void(0,u.L)(this.agentIdentifier,this.featureName);const{lazyFeatureLoader:r}=await i.e(412).then(i.bind(i,8582)),{Aggregate:o}=await r(this.featureName,"aggregate");this.featAggregate=new o(this.agentIdentifier,this.aggregator,e),n(!0)}catch(e){(0,l.Z)("Downloading and initializing ".concat(this.featureName," failed..."),e),this.abortHandler?.(),n(!1)}};c.il?(0,f.b)((()=>o()),!0):o()}shouldImportAgg(r,n){return r!==e.D.sessionReplay||!1!==(0,t.Mt)(this.agentIdentifier,"session_trace.enabled")&&(!!n?.isNew||!!n?.state.sessionReplay)}}var g=i(7633),p=i(7894);class m extends h{static featureName=g.t9;constructor(r,n){let i=!(arguments.length>2&&void 0!==arguments[2])||arguments[2];if(super(r,n,g.t9,i),("undefined"==typeof PerformanceNavigationTiming||c.Tt)&&"undefined"!=typeof PerformanceTiming){const n=(0,t.OP)(r);n[g.Dz]=Math.max(Date.now()-n.offset,0),(0,f.K)((()=>n[g.qw]=Math.max((0,p.z)()-n[g.Dz],0))),(0,f.b)((()=>{const t=(0,p.z)();n[g.OJ]=Math.max(t-n[g.Dz],0),(0,s.p)("timing",["load",t],void 0,e.D.pageViewTiming,this.ee)}))}this.importAggregator()}}var v=i(1117),b=i(1284);class y extends v.w{constructor(e){super(e),this.aggregatedData={}}store(e,t,r,n,i){var o=this.getBucket(e,t,r,i);return o.metrics=function(e,t){t||(t={count:0});return t.count+=1,(0,b.D)(e,(function(e,r){t[e]=w(r,t[e])})),t}(n,o.metrics),o}merge(e,t,r,n,i){var o=this.getBucket(e,t,n,i);if(o.metrics){var a=o.metrics;a.count+=r.count,(0,b.D)(r,(function(e,t){if("count"!==e){var n=a[e],i=r[e];i&&!i.c?a[e]=w(i.t,n):a[e]=function(e,t){if(!t)return e;t.c||(t=x(t.t));return t.min=Math.min(e.min,t.min),t.max=Math.max(e.max,t.max),t.t+=e.t,t.sos+=e.sos,t.c+=e.c,t}(i,a[e])}}))}else o.metrics=r}storeMetric(e,t,r,n){var i=this.getBucket(e,t,r);return i.stats=w(n,i.stats),i}getBucket(e,t,r,n){this.aggregatedData[e]||(this.aggregatedData[e]={});var i=this.aggregatedData[e][t];return i||(i=this.aggregatedData[e][t]={params:r||{}},n&&(i.custom=n)),i}get(e,t){return t?this.aggregatedData[e]&&this.aggregatedData[e][t]:this.aggregatedData[e]}take(e){for(var t={},r="",n=!1,i=0;i t.max&&(t.max=e),e 2&&void 0!==arguments[2])||arguments[2];super(e,r,j.t,n),c.il&&((0,t.OP)(e).initHidden=Boolean("hidden"===document.visibilityState),(0,N.N)((()=>(0,s.p)("docHidden",[(0,p.z)()],void 0,j.t,this.ee)),!0),(0,O.bP)("pagehide",(()=>(0,s.p)("winPagehide",[(0,p.z)()],void 0,j.t,this.ee))),this.importAggregator())}}var P=i(3081);class C extends h{static featureName=P.t9;constructor(e,t){let r=!(arguments.length>2&&void 0!==arguments[2])||arguments[2];super(e,t,P.t9,r),this.importAggregator()}}var R,I=i(2210),k=i(1214),H=i(2177),L={};try{R=localStorage.getItem("__nr_flags").split(","),console&&"function"==typeof console.log&&(L.console=!0,-1!==R.indexOf("dev")&&(L.dev=!0),-1!==R.indexOf("nr_dev")&&(L.nrDev=!0))}catch(e){}function z(e){try{L.console&&z(e)}catch(e){}}L.nrDev&&H.ee.on("internal-error",(function(e){z(e.stack)})),L.dev&&H.ee.on("fn-err",(function(e,t,r){z(r.stack)})),L.dev&&(z("NR AGENT IN DEVELOPMENT MODE"),z("flags: "+(0,b.D)(L,(function(e,t){return e})).join(", ")));var M=i(6660);class B extends h{static featureName=M.t;constructor(r,n){let i=!(arguments.length>2&&void 0!==arguments[2])||arguments[2];super(r,n,M.t,i),this.skipNext=0;try{this.removeOnAbort=new AbortController}catch(e){}const o=this;o.ee.on("fn-start",(function(e,t,r){o.abortHandler&&(o.skipNext+=1)})),o.ee.on("fn-err",(function(t,r,n){o.abortHandler&&!n[M.A]&&((0,I.X)(n,M.A,(function(){return!0})),this.thrown=!0,(0,s.p)("err",[n,(0,p.z)()],void 0,e.D.jserrors,o.ee))})),o.ee.on("fn-end",(function(){o.abortHandler&&!this.thrown&&o.skipNext>0&&(o.skipNext-=1)})),o.ee.on("internal-error",(function(t){(0,s.p)("ierr",[t,(0,p.z)(),!0],void 0,e.D.jserrors,o.ee)})),this.origOnerror=c._A.onerror,c._A.onerror=this.onerrorHandler.bind(this),c._A.addEventListener("unhandledrejection",(t=>{const r=function(e){let t="Unhandled Promise Rejection: ";if(e instanceof Error)try{return e.message=t+e.message,e}catch(t){return e}if(void 0===e)return new Error(t);try{return new Error(t+(0,D.P)(e))}catch(e){return new Error(t)}}(t.reason);(0,s.p)("err",[r,(0,p.z)(),!1,{unhandledPromiseRejection:1}],void 0,e.D.jserrors,this.ee)}),(0,O.m$)(!1,this.removeOnAbort?.signal)),(0,k.gy)(this.ee),(0,k.BV)(this.ee),(0,k.em)(this.ee),(0,t.OP)(r).xhrWrappable&&(0,k.Kf)(this.ee),this.abortHandler=this.#e,this.importAggregator()}#e(){this.removeOnAbort?.abort(),this.abortHandler=void 0}onerrorHandler(t,r,n,i,o){"function"==typeof this.origOnerror&&this.origOnerror(...arguments);try{this.skipNext?this.skipNext-=1:(0,s.p)("err",[o||new F(t,r,n),(0,p.z)()],void 0,e.D.jserrors,this.ee)}catch(t){try{(0,s.p)("ierr",[t,(0,p.z)(),!0],void 0,e.D.jserrors,this.ee)}catch(e){}}return!1}}function F(e,t,r){this.message=e||"Uncaught error with no additional information",this.sourceURL=t,this.line=r}let U=1;const q="nr@id";function G(e){const t=typeof e;return!e||"object"!==t&&"function"!==t?-1:e===c._A?0:(0,I.X)(e,q,(function(){return U++}))}function V(e){if("string"==typeof e&&e.length)return e.length;if("object"==typeof e){if("undefined"!=typeof ArrayBuffer&&e instanceof ArrayBuffer&&e.byteLength)return e.byteLength;if("undefined"!=typeof Blob&&e instanceof Blob&&e.size)return e.size;if(!("undefined"!=typeof FormData&&e instanceof FormData))try{return(0,D.P)(e).length}catch(e){return}}}var X=i(7243);class W{constructor(e){this.agentIdentifier=e,this.generateTracePayload=this.generateTracePayload.bind(this),this.shouldGenerateTrace=this.shouldGenerateTrace.bind(this)}generateTracePayload(e){if(!this.shouldGenerateTrace(e))return null;var r=(0,t.DL)(this.agentIdentifier);if(!r)return null;var n=(r.accountID||"").toString()||null,i=(r.agentID||"").toString()||null,o=(r.trustKey||"").toString()||null;if(!n||!i)return null;var a=(0,_.M)(),s=(0,_.Ht)(),c=Date.now(),u={spanId:a,traceId:s,timestamp:c};return(e.sameOrigin||this.isAllowedOrigin(e)&&this.useTraceContextHeadersForCors())&&(u.traceContextParentHeader=this.generateTraceContextParentHeader(a,s),u.traceContextStateHeader=this.generateTraceContextStateHeader(a,c,n,i,o)),(e.sameOrigin&&!this.excludeNewrelicHeader()||!e.sameOrigin&&this.isAllowedOrigin(e)&&this.useNewrelicHeaderForCors())&&(u.newrelicHeader=this.generateTraceHeader(a,s,c,n,i,o)),u}generateTraceContextParentHeader(e,t){return"00-"+t+"-"+e+"-01"}generateTraceContextStateHeader(e,t,r,n,i){return i+"@nr=0-1-"+r+"-"+n+"-"+e+"----"+t}generateTraceHeader(e,t,r,n,i,o){if(!("function"==typeof c._A?.btoa))return null;var a={v:[0,1],d:{ty:"Browser",ac:n,ap:i,id:e,tr:t,ti:r}};return o&&n!==o&&(a.d.tk=o),btoa((0,D.P)(a))}shouldGenerateTrace(e){return this.isDtEnabled()&&this.isAllowedOrigin(e)}isAllowedOrigin(e){var r=!1,n={};if((0,t.Mt)(this.agentIdentifier,"distributed_tracing")&&(n=(0,t.P_)(this.agentIdentifier).distributed_tracing),e.sameOrigin)r=!0;else if(n.allowed_origins instanceof Array)for(var i=0;i 2&&void 0!==arguments[2])||arguments[2];super(r,n,Z.t,i),(0,t.OP)(r).xhrWrappable&&(this.dt=new W(r),this.handler=(e,t,r,n)=>(0,s.p)(e,t,r,n,this.ee),(0,k.u5)(this.ee),(0,k.Kf)(this.ee),function(r,n,i,o){function a(e){var t=this;t.totalCbs=0,t.called=0,t.cbTime=0,t.end=E,t.ended=!1,t.xhrGuids={},t.lastSize=null,t.loadCaptureCalled=!1,t.params=this.params||{},t.metrics=this.metrics||{},e.addEventListener("load",(function(r){_(t,e)}),(0,O.m$)(!1)),c.IF||e.addEventListener("progress",(function(e){t.lastSize=e.loaded}),(0,O.m$)(!1))}function s(e){this.params={method:e[0]},T(this,e[1]),this.metrics={}}function u(e,n){var i=(0,t.DL)(r);i.xpid&&this.sameOrigin&&n.setRequestHeader("X-NewRelic-ID",i.xpid);var a=o.generateTracePayload(this.parsedOrigin);if(a){var s=!1;a.newrelicHeader&&(n.setRequestHeader("newrelic",a.newrelicHeader),s=!0),a.traceContextParentHeader&&(n.setRequestHeader("traceparent",a.traceContextParentHeader),a.traceContextStateHeader&&n.setRequestHeader("tracestate",a.traceContextStateHeader),s=!0),s&&(this.dt=a)}}function d(e,t){var r=this.metrics,i=e[0],o=this;if(r&&i){var a=V(i);a&&(r.txSize=a)}this.startTime=(0,p.z)(),this.listener=function(e){try{"abort"!==e.type||o.loadCaptureCalled||(o.params.aborted=!0),("load"!==e.type||o.called===o.totalCbs&&(o.onloadCalled||"function"!=typeof t.onload)&&"function"==typeof o.end)&&o.end(t)}catch(e){try{n.emit("internal-error",[e])}catch(e){}}};for(var s=0;s 1?e[1]=i:e.push(i)}else e[0]&&e[0].headers&&s(e[0].headers,n)&&(this.dt=n);function s(e,t){var r=!1;return t.newrelicHeader&&(e.set("newrelic",t.newrelicHeader),r=!0),t.traceContextParentHeader&&(e.set("traceparent",t.traceContextParentHeader),t.traceContextStateHeader&&e.set("tracestate",t.traceContextStateHeader),r=!0),r}}function x(e,t){this.params={},this.metrics={},this.startTime=(0,p.z)(),this.dt=t,e.length>=1&&(this.target=e[0]),e.length>=2&&(this.opts=e[1]);var r,n=this.opts||{},i=this.target;"string"==typeof i?r=i:"object"==typeof i&&i instanceof Y?r=i.url:c._A?.URL&&"object"==typeof i&&i instanceof URL&&(r=i.href),T(this,r);var o=(""+(i&&i instanceof Y&&i.method||n.method||"GET")).toUpperCase();this.params.method=o,this.txSize=V(n.body)||0}function A(t,r){var n;this.endTime=(0,p.z)(),this.params||(this.params={}),this.params.status=r?r.status:0,"string"==typeof this.rxSize&&this.rxSize.length>0&&(n=+this.rxSize);var o={txSize:this.txSize,rxSize:n,duration:(0,p.z)()-this.startTime};i("xhr",[this.params,o,this.startTime,this.endTime,"fetch"],this,e.D.ajax)}function E(t){var r=this.params,n=this.metrics;if(!this.ended){this.ended=!0;for(var o=0;o 2&&void 0!==arguments[2])||arguments[2];super(e,t,we.t,r),this.importAggregator()}}new class{constructor(e){let t=arguments.length>1&&void 0!==arguments[1]?arguments[1]:(0,_.ky)(16);c._A?(this.agentIdentifier=t,this.sharedAggregator=new y({agentIdentifier:this.agentIdentifier}),this.features={},this.desiredFeatures=new Set(e.features||[]),this.desiredFeatures.add(m),Object.assign(this,(0,a.j)(this.agentIdentifier,e,e.loaderType||"agent")),this.start()):(0,l.Z)("Failed to initial the agent. Could not determine the runtime environment.")}get config(){return{info:(0,t.C5)(this.agentIdentifier),init:(0,t.P_)(this.agentIdentifier),loader_config:(0,t.DL)(this.agentIdentifier),runtime:(0,t.OP)(this.agentIdentifier)}}start(){const t="features";try{const r=n(this.agentIdentifier),i=[...this.desiredFeatures];i.sort(((t,r)=>e.p[t.featureName]-e.p[r.featureName])),i.forEach((t=>{if(r[t.featureName]||t.featureName===e.D.pageViewEvent){const n=function(t){switch(t){case e.D.ajax:return[e.D.jserrors];case e.D.sessionTrace:return[e.D.ajax,e.D.pageViewEvent];case e.D.sessionReplay:return[e.D.sessionTrace];case e.D.pageViewTiming:return[e.D.pageViewEvent];default:return[]}}(t.featureName);n.every((e=>r[e]))||(0,l.Z)("".concat(t.featureName," is enabled but one or more dependent features has been disabled (").concat((0,D.P)(n),"). This may cause unintended consequences or missing data...")),this.features[t.featureName]=new t(this.agentIdentifier,this.sharedAggregator)}})),(0,T.Qy)(this.agentIdentifier,this.features,t)}catch(e){(0,l.Z)("Failed to initialize all enabled instrument classes (agent aborted) -",e);for(const e in this.features)this.features[e].abortHandler?.();const r=(0,T.fP)();return delete r.initializedAgents[this.agentIdentifier]?.api,delete r.initializedAgents[this.agentIdentifier]?.[t],delete this.sharedAggregator,r.ee?.abort(),delete r.ee?.get(this.agentIdentifier),!1}}}({features:[J,m,S,class extends h{static featureName=oe;constructor(t,r){if(super(t,r,oe,!(arguments.length>2&&void 0!==arguments[2])||arguments[2]),!c.il)return;const n=this.ee;let i;(0,k.QU)(n),this.eventsEE=(0,k.em)(n),this.eventsEE.on(se,(function(e,t){this.bstStart=(0,p.z)()})),this.eventsEE.on(ae,(function(t,r){(0,s.p)("bst",[t[0],r,this.bstStart,(0,p.z)()],void 0,e.D.sessionTrace,n)})),n.on(ce+ne,(function(e){this.time=(0,p.z)(),this.startPath=location.pathname+location.hash})),n.on(ce+ie,(function(t){(0,s.p)("bstHist",[location.pathname+location.hash,this.startPath,this.time],void 0,e.D.sessionTrace,n)}));try{i=new PerformanceObserver((t=>{const r=t.getEntries();(0,s.p)(te,[r],void 0,e.D.sessionTrace,n)})),i.observe({type:re,buffered:!0})}catch(e){}this.importAggregator({resourceObserver:i})}},C,xe,B,class extends h{static featureName=de;constructor(e,r){if(super(e,r,de,!(arguments.length>2&&void 0!==arguments[2])||arguments[2]),!c.il)return;if(!(0,t.OP)(e).xhrWrappable)return;try{this.removeOnAbort=new AbortController}catch(e){}let n,i=0;const o=this.ee.get("tracer"),a=(0,k._L)(this.ee),s=(0,k.Lg)(this.ee),u=(0,k.BV)(this.ee),d=(0,k.Kf)(this.ee),f=this.ee.get("events"),l=(0,k.u5)(this.ee),h=(0,k.QU)(this.ee),g=(0,k.Gm)(this.ee);function m(e,t){h.emit("newURL",[""+window.location,t])}function v(){i++,n=window.location.hash,this[ve]=(0,p.z)()}function b(){i--,window.location.hash!==n&&m(0,!0);var e=(0,p.z)();this[pe]=~~this[pe]+e-this[ve],this[ye]=e}function y(e,t){e.on(t,(function(){this[t]=(0,p.z)()}))}this.ee.on(ve,v),s.on(be,v),a.on(be,v),this.ee.on(ye,b),s.on(ge,b),a.on(ge,b),this.ee.buffer([ve,ye,"xhr-resolved"],this.featureName),f.buffer([ve],this.featureName),u.buffer(["setTimeout"+le,"clearTimeout"+fe,ve],this.featureName),d.buffer([ve,"new-xhr","send-xhr"+fe],this.featureName),l.buffer([me+fe,me+"-done",me+he+fe,me+he+le],this.featureName),h.buffer(["newURL"],this.featureName),g.buffer([ve],this.featureName),s.buffer(["propagate",be,ge,"executor-err","resolve"+fe],this.featureName),o.buffer([ve,"no-"+ve],this.featureName),a.buffer(["new-jsonp","cb-start","jsonp-error","jsonp-end"],this.featureName),y(l,me+fe),y(l,me+"-done"),y(a,"new-jsonp"),y(a,"jsonp-end"),y(a,"cb-start"),h.on("pushState-end",m),h.on("replaceState-end",m),window.addEventListener("hashchange",m,(0,O.m$)(!0,this.removeOnAbort?.signal)),window.addEventListener("load",m,(0,O.m$)(!0,this.removeOnAbort?.signal)),window.addEventListener("popstate",(function(){m(0,i>1)}),(0,O.m$)(!0,this.removeOnAbort?.signal)),this.abortHandler=this.#e,this.importAggregator()}#e(){this.removeOnAbort?.abort(),this.abortHandler=void 0}}],loaderType:"spa"})})(),window.NRBA=o})(); window.jQuery || document.write(' ') CKEDITOR_BASEPATH='https://f1000research.com/js/vendor/ckeditor/' window.reactTheme = 'research'; window.MathJax = { CommonHTML: { linebreaks: { automatic: true } }, 'HTML-CSS': { linebreaks: { automatic: true } }, SVG: { linebreaks: { automatic: true } }, AuthorInit: function() { MathJax.Hub.Register.MessageHook('End Process', function () { let timeout = false; // holder for timeout id const delay = 250; // delay after event is "complete" to run callback const reflowMath = function() { const dispFormulas = document.querySelectorAll('.disp-formula.panel'); if (!dispFormulas) { return; } for (const dispFormula of dispFormulas) { const child = dispFormula.querySelector('.MathJax_Preview').nextSibling.firstChild; const isMultiline = MathJax.Hub.getAllJax(dispFormula)[0].root.isMultiline; if (dispFormula.offsetWidth < child.offsetWidth || isMultiline) { MathJax.Hub.Queue(['Rerender', MathJax.Hub, dispFormula]); } } }; window.addEventListener('resize', function() { clearTimeout(timeout); // clear the timeout timeout = setTimeout(reflowMath, delay); // start timing for event "completion" }); }); }, }; if (window.location.hash == '#_=_'){ window.location = window.location.href.split('#')[0] } !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s){if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function() {n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments)} ;if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)}(window, document,'script','https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '1641728616063202'); fbq('track', "PixelInitialized", {}); (function(h,o,t,j,a,r){ h.hj=h.hj||function(){(h.hj.q=h.hj.q||[]).push(arguments)}; h._hjSettings={hjid:2318163,hjsv:6}; a=o.getElementsByTagName('head')[0]; r=o.createElement('script');r.async=1; r.src=t+h._hjSettings.hjid+j+h._hjSettings.hjsv; a.appendChild(r); })(window,document,'https://static.hotjar.com/c/hotjar-','.js?sv='); search file_upload Submit your research search menu close search Browse Gateways & Collections How to Publish Submit your Research My Submissions Article Guidelines Article Guidelines (New Versions) Open Data, Software and Code Guidelines Open Data and Accessible Source Materials Guidelines (HSS) Open Data, Software and Code Guidelines (PSE) Prepublication Checks Production Process Posters and Slides Guidelines Document Guidelines Article Processing Charges Peer Review Finding Article Reviewers About How it Works For Reviewers Our Advisors Policies Glossary FAQs For Developers Newsroom Contact My Research Submissions Content and Tracking Alerts My Details Sign In file_upload Submit your research { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "ScholarlyArticle", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201" }, "headline": "Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications", "datePublished": "2026-02-06T06:15:27", "dateModified": "2026-02-06T06:15:27", "author": [ { "@type": "Person", "name": "Jomana Alsenan" }, { "@type": "Person", "name": "Sara Al-Ghamdi" }, { "@type": "Person", "name": "Dana Al-Senan" } ], "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "F1000Research", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://f1000research.com/img/AMP/F1000Research_image.png", "height": 480, "width": 60 } }, "image": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://f1000research.com/img/AMP/F1000Research_image.png", "height": 1200, "width": 150 }, "description": "This review summarizes current knowledge on both the most used photoinitiator system in dental resin (camphorquinone) and the alternative photoinitiator systems employed in dentistry. The review focuses on polymerization mechanisms, in vitro evaluation techniques, and factors that influence the degree of conversion and hardness of dental resin-based materials. A comprehensive electronic literature search was performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Elsevier databases, covering publications from 1984 to 2025. More than 30 articles were selected based on their relevance to the scope of this review. Light-activated dental resin-based composites (RBCs) represent the most widely used restorative materials in clinical practice. However, effective polymerization of each photoinitiator system depends on the use of a compatible light-curing unit with an appropriate emission spectrum. Changes in the photoinitiator system can markedly affect the biomechanical properties of dental resins, including degree of conversion, hardness, and biocompatibility. This review provides a comparative analysis of RBCs formulated with different photoinitiators, such as camphorquinone, benzophenone, 1-phenyl-1,2-propanedione, trimethylbenzoyl-diphenylphosphine oxide, and benzoyl peroxide. The main objective of this article was to highlight alternative photoinitiators capable of overcoming the color drawbacks of camphorquinone, particularly yellow discoloration, while maintaining comparable mechanical performance. Although current evidence suggests that no alternative photoinitiator fully matches the effectiveness of camphorquinone, certain systems—such as benzoyl germanium derivatives and novel acylphosphine oxide photoinitiators used in combination with camphorquinone—appear promising for enhancing esthetic properties and increasing the degree of conversion of dental RBCs." } { "@context": "http://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": "1", "item": { "@id": "https://f1000research.com/", "name": "Home" } }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": "2", "item": { "@id": "https://f1000research.com/browse/articles", "name": "Browse" } }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": "3", "item": { "@id": "https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201", "name": "Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms,..." } } ] } Home Browse Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms,... ALL Metrics - Views Downloads Get PDF Get XML Cite How to cite this article Alsenan J, Al-Ghamdi S and Al-Senan D. Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.176121.1 ) NOTE: If applicable, it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in all citations of this article. Close Copy Citation Details Export Export Citation Sciwheel EndNote Ref. Manager Bibtex ProCite Sente EXPORT Select a format first Track Share ▬ ✚ Review Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] Jomana Alsenan https://orcid.org/0009-0001-2040-4024 1,2 , Sara Al-Ghamdi 3 , Dana Al-Senan https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6882-8347 4 Jomana Alsenan https://orcid.org/0009-0001-2040-4024 1,2 , Sara Al-Ghamdi 3 , Dana Al-Senan https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6882-8347 4 PUBLISHED 06 Feb 2026 Author details Author details 1 Department of Clinical Sciences, Ajman University of Science and Technology College of Dentistry, Ajman, Ajman, 346, United Arab Emirates 2 Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University of Science and Technology College of Dentistry, Ajman, Ajman, 346, United Arab Emirates 3 Department of Clinical Dental Sciences, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia 4 Dental Clinics Department, King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia Jomana Alsenan Roles: Conceptualization, Data Curation, Formal Analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Project Administration, Resources, Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing – Original Draft Preparation, Writing – Review & Editing Sara Al-Ghamdi Roles: Conceptualization, Investigation, Methodology, Writing – Original Draft Preparation Dana Al-Senan Roles: Conceptualization, Data Curation, Formal Analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Project Administration, Resources, Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing – Original Draft Preparation, Writing – Review & Editing OPEN PEER REVIEW DETAILS REVIEWER STATUS Abstract This review summarizes current knowledge on both the most used photoinitiator system in dental resin (camphorquinone) and the alternative photoinitiator systems employed in dentistry. The review focuses on polymerization mechanisms, in vitro evaluation techniques, and factors that influence the degree of conversion and hardness of dental resin-based materials. A comprehensive electronic literature search was performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Elsevier databases, covering publications from 1984 to 2025. More than 30 articles were selected based on their relevance to the scope of this review. Light-activated dental resin-based composites (RBCs) represent the most widely used restorative materials in clinical practice. However, effective polymerization of each photoinitiator system depends on the use of a compatible light-curing unit with an appropriate emission spectrum. Changes in the photoinitiator system can markedly affect the biomechanical properties of dental resins, including degree of conversion, hardness, and biocompatibility. This review provides a comparative analysis of RBCs formulated with different photoinitiators, such as camphorquinone, benzophenone, 1-phenyl-1,2-propanedione, trimethylbenzoyl-diphenylphosphine oxide, and benzoyl peroxide. The main objective of this article was to highlight alternative photoinitiators capable of overcoming the color drawbacks of camphorquinone, particularly yellow discoloration, while maintaining comparable mechanical performance. Although current evidence suggests that no alternative photoinitiator fully matches the effectiveness of camphorquinone, certain systems—such as benzoyl germanium derivatives and novel acylphosphine oxide photoinitiators used in combination with camphorquinone—appear promising for enhancing esthetic properties and increasing the degree of conversion of dental RBCs. READ ALL READ LESS Keywords Photoinitiator, resin-based composite, camphorquinone, restorative dentistry, benzophenone, 1-phenyl-1,2-propanedione, trimethylbenzoyl-diphenylphosphine oxide, and benzoyl peroxide. Corresponding Author(s) Jomana Alsenan ( [email protected] ) Close Corresponding author: Jomana Alsenan Competing interests: No competing interests were disclosed. Grant information: The author(s) declared that no grants were involved in supporting this work. Copyright: © 2026 Alsenan J et al . This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. How to cite: Alsenan J, Al-Ghamdi S and Al-Senan D. Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.176121.1 ) First published: 06 Feb 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.176121.1 ) Latest published: 06 Feb 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.176121.1 ) Introduction Dental resin-based composites (RBCs) have become indispensable in contemporary restorative dentistry, offering a combination of esthetic appeal and functional performance. A critical component in the success of these materials is the photoinitiator system, which governs the initiation and efficiency of the light-activated polymerization process. Among the various photoinitiators, camphorquinone (CQ) has long been the standard due to its compatibility with most dental light curing unit (LCU) systems including the quartz-tungsten-halogen (QTH) and single-emission-peak and multiple-emission-peak light-emtitting-diode (LED) units that include blue spectrum and its well-documented clinical performance. 1 Nevertheless, CQ presents certain limitations, including its inherent yellow coloration, dependence on co-initiators, and reduced polymerization efficiency in acidic environments. 2 In response, alternative photoinitiators such as 1-phenyl-1,2-propanedione (PPD), diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide (TPO), and phenylbis(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide (BAPO) have been developed to address these shortcomings. 2 These alternatives offer advantages such as enhanced esthetic outcomes, improved reactivity, and broader spectral sensitivity. However, their efficacy is highly dependent on the specific (LCU) employed, as each photoinitiator has a distinct absorption spectrum and activation profile. 3 , 4 Despite the increasing diversity of photoinitiator systems, a common oversight in clinical and laboratory settings is the assumption of their interchangeability. This oversimplification overlooks the fundamental differences in photochemical behavior, spectral requirements, and material compatibility. The inappropriate pairing of a photoinitiator with an incompatible resin system or curing light can adversely affect the degree of conversion, mechanical integrity, color stability, and overall clinical success of the restoration. 5 , 6 This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of photoinitiator systems used in dental composites. It examines their chemical classifications, absorption characteristics, polymerization kinetics, and interactions with various curing technologies. By elucidating these relationships, the review underscores the importance of selecting appropriate photoinitiators tailored to the specific material formulation and clinical context, thereby optimizing restorative outcomes. RBCs composition The RBCs are composed of an organic resin matrix, inorganic filler particles, a silane coupling agent, photoinitiator system, pigments, inhibitors, and each component plays a critical role in light transmission and polymerization efficiency. 7 The resin matrix, commonly based on Bis-GMA, UDMA, and TEGDMA, determines viscosity, refractive index, and mobility of reactive radicals; lower-viscosity monomers such as TEGDMA enhance monomer conversion but may increase shrinkage, while more rigid monomers like Bis-GMA can limit radical mobility and reduce degree of conversion at greater depths. 8 Inorganic fillers—such as silica, quartz, or glass—improve mechanical properties but significantly affect light transmission; increased filler loading, larger particle size, and mismatch between the refractive indices of fillers and resin matrix lead to greater light scattering, reducing irradiance penetration and depth of cure. Conversely, nanofilled composites, although highly filled, may exhibit improved translucency if refractive indices are well matched, allowing better light propagation. 9 The silane coupling agent ensures stress transfer between filler and matrix and indirectly supports polymerization efficiency by maintaining optical homogeneity. The photoinitiator system, most commonly camphorquinone combined with an amine co-initiator, strongly influences polymerization kinetics; camphorquinone absorbs blue light (≈468 nm), and insufficient light transmission due to composite opacity, shade, or thickness results in reduced free-radical generation and incomplete polymerization. 10 Darker shades and opaque composites further attenuate light, necessitating higher irradiance or longer exposure times. Overall, the interaction between RBCs composition and optical properties governs light transmission, degree of conversion, depth of cure, and ultimately the clinical performance and longevity of resin-based restorations. 10 Polymerization chemistry Polymerization of the resin matrix in dental RBCs occurs predominantly through light-activated free-radical polymerization of methacrylate-based monomers such as Bis-GMA, UDMA, and TEGDMA, initiated by photoinitiator systems that generate reactive radicals upon light exposure; these radicals attack carbon–carbon double bonds (C=C), leading to chain propagation, crosslinking, and formation of a rigid polymer network. 11 The reaction proceeds rapidly during the pre-gel phase, followed by a diffusion-limited post-gel (vitrification) phase in which monomer mobility decreases, restricting further conversion and resulting in a degree of conversion (DC) that is typically incomplete. 12 DC is a critical determinant of mechanical properties, wear resistance, color stability, and biocompatibility, while insufficient conversion is associated with increased residual monomers and reduced clinical performance. 13 Polymerization kinetics and final conversion are influenced by multiple factors, including monomer composition and viscosity, filler content and light scattering, photoinitiator type and concentration, spectral compatibility with the LCU, and curing protocol. 14 An inherent consequence of polymerization is volumetric shrinkage, which generates shrinkage stress at the tooth–restoration interface and may compromise marginal integrity and bonding durability. Consequently, modern composite formulations aim to balance adequate conversion with controlled polymerization rates and reduced shrinkage stress through optimized resin chemistry, filler loading, and photoinitiator systems. 15 Photoinitiators Photoinitiators are essential components of resin composites, acting as light-activated molecules that initiate the polymerization of methacrylate monomers by generating free radicals. 16 In accordance with the Grotthuss–Draper law, only absorbed light can induce a photochemical reaction, meaning that polymerization efficiency depends strongly on the spectral overlap between the initiator’s absorption band and the output wavelength of the curing light. 17 The selection of photoinitiator directly affects the degree of conversion (DC), color stability, curing depth, and mechanical integrity of the restoration. 14 Photoinitiators are broadly divided into Type I (unimolecular) and Type II (bimolecular) systems, distinguished by their mechanisms of free-radical formation. 18 Type I photoinitiators, also known as Norrish Type I compounds, undergo α-cleavage when exposed to light, producing two radical fragments that can each initiate polymerization without requiring a co-initiator. 18 Common examples include trimethylbenzoyl-diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO), bis-acylphosphine oxide (BAPO), and mono-acylphosphine oxide (MAPO). 19 These phosphine-oxide derivatives are characterized by their absorption of shorter-wavelength violet light (≈380–420 nm) and high molar absorptivity. 20 This enables more efficient polymerization and reduced yellow discoloration compared with camphorquinone (CQ) systems, and leads to improved tissue shade matching and lower residual-monomer release due to higher cross-link density. 20 , 21 However, challenge arises because their absorption limits are near the ultraviolet region, leading to a spectral mismatch with single-emission-peak LED units, which are typically designed for CQ activation at 460–480 nm. 22 To address this, multiple-emission-peak LED LCUs, such as Bluephase G2 and Valo emits multiple peaks, ensuring the simultaneous activation of both initiator types. 23 Type II photoinitiators, including camphorquinone (CQ), phenanthrenequinone (PQ), benzophenone (BP), and 1-phenyl-1,2-propanedione (PPD), require a co-initiator, usually a tertiary aromatic amine, to form free radicals via hydrogen-abstraction or electron-transfer reactions. 24 These initiators absorb light in the visible-blue spectrum (≈400–490 nm), aligns with most dental LCUs ( Table 1 ). 7 , 25 Table 1. Photoinitiators used in dental resin-based composites and their properties. Photoinitiator Chemical type Absorption spectrum (nm) Initiator type Key advantages Limitations Typical concentration Camphorquinone (CQ) α-diketone 430–490 (peak ~468) Type II (amine) Reliable depth of cure, wide LCU compatibility Yellow discoloration, amine dependency 0.2–1.0 wt% Phenyl-1,2-propanedione (PPD) α-diketone 380–420 Type II (amine) Reduced yellowing, faster polymerization than CQ Limited compatibility with mono-wave LEDs 0.2–0.6 wt% Benzophenone (BP) Aromatic ketone 330–380 Type II (amine) Stable initiator for dual-cure systems Low depth of cure, UV-dependent 0.5–1.0 wt% TPO Acylphosphine oxide 350–420 Type I High reactivity, minimal discoloration Requires polywave LCUs, limited depth in bulk 0.1–0.5 wt% BAPO Bis-acylphosphine oxide 365–420 Type I Very fast curing, high surface hardness Higher cytotoxicity concerns 0.1–0.5 wt% Ivocerin ® Benzoyl germanium 370–460 Type I Excellent depth of cure, low coloration Limited long-term biological data 0.05–0.3 wt% Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) Peroxide Chemical activation Chemical Effective in self-/dual-cure systems Time-dependent polymerization 0.5–1.0 wt% CQ remains the clinical standard due to its reliable curing depth and mechanical performance, although drawbacks include yellow coloration, amine oxidation, and reduced long-term color stability. Radical formation involves CQ excitation to a singlet state, intersystem crossing to a triplet state, and subsequent reaction with the co-initiator. 26 The efficiency of this process depends on initiator concentration, amine structure, and exposure energy. 27 To overcome the limitations of CQ-based systems, Type I photoinitiators, including trimethylbenzoyl-diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) and bis-acylphosphine oxide (BAPO), have gained increasing attention. 14 These initiators undergo α-cleavage upon light activation, generating radicals more efficiently without the need for amine co-initiators. 28 As a result, they demonstrate higher reactivity, faster polymerization, and improved color stability. 29 However, their absorption spectra lie primarily in the violet light range (approximately 350–420 nm), requiring multiple-emission-peak or violet-enhanced LED curing units to ensure adequate activation, particularly at greater depths. 14 More recently, benzoyl germanium derivatives, such as Ivocerin ® , have been introduced as advanced photoinitiators for dental applications. 25 These materials exhibit broad absorption spectra extending into the visible range, high quantum efficiency, and excellent depth of cure while maintaining low intrinsic coloration. 25 Their improved reactivity allows for shorter curing times and enhanced mechanical properties, although long-term biological safety continues to be an area of active investigation. 30 Reactivity of photoinitators The reactivity of a photoinitiator dictates its efficiency in generating free radicals upon light exposure. TPO, for instance, demonstrates higher reactivity and faster radical production than CQ, leading to more complete polymerization and higher degrees of conversion under similar curing conditions. 19 Conversely, CQ requires the presence of a tertiary amine to act as an electron donor for radical formation, making its efficiency dependent on both amine concentration and oxygen inhibition levels. 31 This reactivity difference explains the superior conversion rate and reduced residual monomer release observed in TPO-based composite systems compared with traditional CQ–amine formulations. 7 Studies show that resins containing only TPO achieve comparable or higher degrees of conversion than CQ–amine systems, with superior color stability and reduced post-cure yellowing. 14 , 32 However, TPO-based materials sometimes exhibit a lower depth of cure, attributed to limited photon penetration at shorter wavelengths. 22 In contrast, BAPO and PPD can activated under blue light activation, utilize both α-cleavage and hydrogen-abstraction mechanisms, thereby extending their curing compatibility with broader-spectrum LCUs. 16 Overall, the development of alternative photoinitiators such as TPO, BAPO, and MAPO, together with multi-peak LED technology, has expanded the photopolymerization capabilities for dental RBCs. This has resulted in improving aesthetic outcomes and enabling optimized curing efficiency while minimizing residual stress and discoloration. 7 Toxicity of photoinitiators Despite their photophysical advantages, TPO and BAPO demonstrate significantly higher in vitro cytotoxicity and genotoxicity compared to CQ, some studies have reported their cytotoxicity to be 50 to 250 times greater in certain cell models. 33 This toxicity is further amplified when TPO is combined with monomers like Bis-GMA, as synergistic result in increased oxidative stress and reduced cell viability. 33 Nevertheless, fully polymerized composites release only minimal residual photoinitiator, and due to very low in vivo exposure levels, clinically significant toxicity has not been demonstrated. A separate concern arises from phosphine-oxide photoinitiators like TPO, which display poor biodegradability and environmental persistence, raising ecotoxicological concerns. 33 Consequently, researchers recommend ongoing monitoring and expanded biocompatibility assessments for TPO-containing RBCs, particularly in bulk-fill formulations and high-initiator-content systems. 16 Influence of photoinitiator concentration and ratios The concentration and ratio of photoinitiators and co-initiators play a critical role in determining the polymerization efficiency, optical properties, and clinical performance of resin-based composites. 7 Increasing photoinitiator concentration generally enhances free-radical generation, leading to a higher polymerization rate and increased degree of conversion; however, beyond an optimal level, excessive photoinitiator can cause premature radical termination, increased light absorption near the surface, and reduced depth of cure due to attenuation of light transmission. 34 High concentrations of camphorquinone (CQ), the most commonly used photoinitiator, are also associated with increased yellow coloration, negatively affecting esthetic outcomes. 35 The ratio between CQ and the amine co-initiator is equally important, as an imbalance may limit radical formation or increase the presence of unreacted amines, which can compromise color stability and long-term biocompatibility. 36 Optimal CQ–amine ratios promote efficient electron transfer, maximizing polymerization kinetics while minimizing discoloration and cytotoxic by-products. 37 In alternative photoinitiator systems, such as phenyl-propanedione (PPD), bis-acylphosphine oxide (BAPO), and trimethylbenzoyl-diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO), concentration and ratio similarly influence curing behavior, with higher reactivity often improving depth of cure but increasing sensitivity to light wavelength compatibility. 6 Overall, careful optimization of photoinitiator concentration and initiator–co-initiator ratios is essential to balance degree of conversion, curing depth, color stability, and mechanical performance of resin-based composites. 14 Factors affecting photoinitiator efficiency Photoinitiator efficiency in RBCs is influenced by multiple interrelated material- and curing-related factors that determine the extent of free-radical generation and polymerization. 38 The type of photoinitiator is fundamental, as different systems exhibit distinct absorption spectra and quantum yields; for example, camphorquinone (CQ) absorbs blue light (~468 nm), whereas alternative initiators such as TPO and BAPO absorb at shorter wavelengths and often generate radicals more efficiently. 14 Photoinitiator concentration and initiator–co-initiator ratio critically affect polymerization kinetics, with insufficient levels leading to inadequate radical formation and excessive amounts causing light attenuation, increased surface curing, and reduced depth of cure. 9 LCUs characteristics, including irradiance, wavelength distribution, exposure time, and beam homogeneity, must be compatible with the initiator’s absorption spectrum to ensure effective activation. 26 Composite optical properties, such as shade, translucency, filler content, particle size, and refractive index matching between filler and resin matrix, influence light transmission and thus initiator activation at greater depths. 39 The resin matrix composition also affects efficiency, as monomer viscosity and rigidity govern radical mobility and propagation; highly viscous systems may restrict conversion despite adequate initiation. 39 Oxygen inhibition at the surface can quench free radicals, reducing polymerization efficiency, particularly in low-initiator or low-irradiance conditions. 40 Additionally, temperature and increment thickness influence reaction kinetics, with thicker increments and lower temperatures reducing initiator activation and depth of cure. 41 Collectively, these factors highlight the need for optimized material formulation and appropriate curing protocols to maximize photoinitiator efficiency and clinical performance. 42 Conclusion Photoinitiator systems are critical to the clinical performance and longevity of resin-based composites, as they govern polymerization kinetics, depth of cure, degree of conversion, mechanical properties, color stability, and biocompatibility. Their effectiveness results from complex interactions among composite composition, optical properties, photoinitiator concentration and ratios, light-curing unit spectral output, and clinical curing protocols. Resin matrix chemistry and filler characteristics influence light transmission and initiator activation at depth, while inappropriate initiator concentrations may compromise polymerization efficiency and esthetic outcomes. Advances in alternative photoinitiators such as trimethylbenzoyl-diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) and bis-acylphosphine oxide (BAPO) have improved reactivity and reduced intrinsic discoloration compared with camphorquinone-based systems, although they require careful spectral compatibility with light-curing units and raise considerations regarding biological safety. As no single photoinitiator fulfills all clinical requirements, modern resin composites increasingly rely on multi-initiator systems that combine camphorquinone with Type I initiators to broaden absorption spectra, enhance curing efficiency, and improve esthetic and mechanical performance. Continued optimization of these systems, along with improved light-curing strategies and long-term biological evaluation, is essential for achieving predictable clinical outcomes and advancing resin-based restorative materials. Data availability statement Underlying data No data are associated with this article. Extended data Figshare. Table 1 . Photoinitiators Used in Dental Resin-Based Composites and Their Properties. figshare. Dataset. https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.30929384.v1 This project contains the following underlying data: • Table 1 . Photoinitiators Used in Dental Resin-Based Composites and Their Properties Data are available under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license (CC-BY 4.0). References 1. Brandt WC, Schneider LFJ, Frollini E, et al. : Effect of different photo-initiators and light curing units on degree of conversion of composites. Braz. Oral Res. 2010; 24 (3): 263–270. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 2. Bertolo MVL, Moraes R d CM, Pfeifer C, et al. : Influence of Photoinitiator System on Physical-Chemical Properties of Experimental Self-Adhesive Composites. Braz. Dent. J. 2017; 28 (1): 35–39. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 3. Oliveira Boeira P, De Azevedo KM, Bertolini Fernandes Dos Santos M, et al. : Polywave And Monowave Light-Curing Units Effects On Polymerization Efficiency Of Different Photoinitiators. Braz Dent Sci. 2021 Oct 1 [cited 2025 Dec 1]; 24 (4). Publisher Full Text Reference Source 4. Fernández-Barrera MÁ, Bourgi R, Flores-Ledesma A, et al. : Does the Application of Polywave Light-Curing Units Influence Physico-mechanical Properties of Resin-Based Materials? A Meta-Analysis of in-Vitro Studies. Int Arab J Dent. 2024 Jan 1; 15 (2): 173–203. Publisher Full Text Reference Source 5. Lara L, Rocha MG, de Menezes LR , et al. : Effect of combining photoinitiators on cure efficiency of dental resin-based composites. J. Appl. Oral Sci. 29 : e20200467. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text | Free Full Text 6. Kowalska-Kuczyńska A, Sokołowski J, Szynkowska-Jóźwik MI, et al. : Evaluation of the Selected Mechanical and Aesthetic Properties of Experimental Resin Dental Composites Containing 1-phenyl-1,2 Propanedione or Phenylbis(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)-phosphine Oxide as a Photoinitiator. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023 Mar 14; 24 (6): 5573. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text | Free Full Text 7. Ferracane JL: Resin composite—State of the art. Dent. Mater. 2011 Jan 1; 27 (1): 29–38. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 8. Ilie N, Hickel R: Investigations on mechanical behaviour of dental composites. Clin. Oral Investig. 2009 Dec; 13 (4): 427–438. Publisher Full Text 9. Oivanen M, Keulemans F, Garoushi S, et al. : The effect of refractive index of fillers and polymer matrix on translucency and color matching of dental resin composite. Biomater Investig Dent. 8 (1): 48–53. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 10. Emami N, Söderholm KJM, Berglund LA: Effect of light power density variations on bulk curing properties of dental composites. J. Dent. 2003 Mar 1; 31 (3): 189–196. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 11. Stansbury JW: Curing Dental Resins and Composites by Photopolymerization. J. Esthet. Restor. Dent. 2000; 12 (6): 300–308. Publisher Full Text 12. Al-Ahdal K, Ilie N, Silikas N, et al. : Polymerization kinetics and impact of post polymerization on the Degree of Conversion of bulk-fill resin-composite at clinically relevant depth. Dent. Mater. 2015 Oct 1; 31 (10): 1207–1213. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 13. Alharbi G, Al Nahedh HN, Al-Saud LM, et al. : Flexural strength and degree of conversion of universal single shade resin-based composites. Heliyon. 2024 June 6; 10 (11): e32557. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text | Free Full Text 14. Kowalska A, Sokolowski J, Bociong K: The Photoinitiators Used in Resin Based Dental Composite—A Review and Future Perspectives. Polymers. 2021 Feb 2; 13 (3): 470. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text | Free Full Text 15. Meereis CTW, Münchow EA, de Oliveira da Rosa WL , et al. : Polymerization shrinkage stress of resin-based dental materials: A systematic review and meta-analyses of composition strategies. J. Mech. Behav. Biomed. Mater. 2018 June 1; 82 : 268–281. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 16. Duarte B, Neto J, Pinheiro D, et al. : Effects of photoinitiators on dental composite resins: a narrative review. MedNEXT J Med Health Sci. 2022 July 12; 3 . Publisher Full Text 17. King MC, Laidler KJ: Chemical kinetics and the radiation hypothesis. Arch. Hist. Exact Sci. 1984 Mar 1; 30 (1): 45–86. Publisher Full Text 18. Lovell LG, Stansbury JW, Syrpes DC, et al. : Effects of Composition and Reactivity on the Reaction Kinetics of Dimethacrylate/Dimethacrylate Copolymerizations. Macromolecules. 1999 June 1; 32 (12): 3913–3921. Publisher Full Text 19. Neumann MG, Miranda WG, Schmitt CC, et al. : Molar extinction coefficients and the photon absorption efficiency of dental photoinitiators and light curing units. J. Dent. 2005 July 1; 33 (6): 525–532. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 20. Price RB, Shortall AC, Palin WM: Contemporary issues in light curing. Oper. Dent. 2014; 39 (1): 4–14. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 21. Van Landuyt KL, Snauwaert J, De Munck J, et al. : Systematic review of the chemical composition of contemporary dental adhesives. Biomaterials. 2007 Sept; 28 (26): 3757–3785. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 22. Mills RW, Uhl A, Jandt KD: Optical power outputs, spectra and dental composite depths of cure, obtained with blue light emitting diode (LED) and halogen light curing units (LCUs). Br. Dent. J. 2002 Oct; 193 (8): 459–463. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 23. Krämer N, Lohbauer U, García-Godoy F, et al. : Light curing of resin-based composites in the LED era. Am. J. Dent. 2008; 21 (3): 135–142. PubMed Abstract 24. Kamoun EA, Winkel A, Eisenburger M, et al. : Carboxylated camphorquinone as visible-light photoinitiator for biomedical application: Synthesis, characterization, and application. Arab. J. Chem. 2016 Sept 1; 9 (5): 745–754. Publisher Full Text 25. Moszner N, Fischer UK, Ganster B, et al. : Benzoyl germanium derivatives as novel visible light photoinitiators for dental materials. Dent. Mater. 2008 July 1; 24 (7): 901–907. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 26. Santini A, Gallegos IT, Felix CM: Photoinitiators in dentistry: a review. Prim. Dent. J. 2013 Oct; 2 (4): 30–33. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 27. Alonso RCB, de Souza-Júnior EJC , Dressano D, et al. : Effect of photoinitiator concentration on marginal and internal adaptation of experimental composite blends photocured by modulated methods. Eur. J. Dent. 2013 Sept; 7 (Suppl 1): S1–S8. 28. Topa M, Ortyl J: Moving Towards a Finer Way of Light-Cured Resin-Based Restorative Dental Materials: Recent Advances in Photoinitiating Systems Based on Iodonium Salts. Materials. 2020 Jan; 13 (18): 4093. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text | Free Full Text 29. Price RB, Ferracane JL, Shortall AC: Light-Curing Units: A Review of What We Need to Know. J. Dent. Res. 2015 Sept; 94 (9): 1179–1186. Publisher Full Text 30. Moszner N, Fischer UK, Ganster B, et al. : Benzoyl germanium derivatives as novel visible light photoinitiators for dental materials. Dent. Mater. 2008 July 1; 24 (7): 901–907. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 31. Morlet-Savary F, Klee JE, Pfefferkorn F, et al. : The Camphorquinone/Amine and Camphorquinone/Amine/Phosphine Oxide Derivative Photoinitiating Systems: Overview, Mechanistic Approach, and Role of the Excitation Light Source. Macromol. Chem. Phys. 2015; 216 (22): 2161–2170. Publisher Full Text 32. Kowalska A, Sokołowski J, Szynkowska-Jóźwik MI, et al. : Can TPO as Photoinitiator Replace “Golden Mean” Camphorquinone and Tertiary Amines in Dental Composites? Testing Experimental Composites Containing Different Concentration of Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine Oxide. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022 Sept 30; 23 (19): 11594. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text | Free Full Text 33. Kim GT, Go HB, Yu JH, et al. : Cytotoxicity, Colour Stability and Dimensional Accuracy of 3D Printing Resin with Three Different Photoinitiators. Polymers. 2022 Feb 28; 14 (5): 979. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text | Free Full Text 34. Wang K, Li B, Ni K, et al. : Optimal photoinitiator concentration for light-cured dental resins. Polym. Test. 2021 Feb 1; 94 : 107039. Publisher Full Text 35. Venhoven BAM, de Gee AJ , Davidson CL: Light initiation of dental resins: dynamics of the polymerization. Biomaterials. 1996 Jan 1; 17 (24): 2313–2318. Publisher Full Text 36. Guimarães T, Schneider LF, Braga RR, et al. : Mapping camphorquinone consumption, conversion and mechanical properties in methacrylates with systematically varied CQ/amine compositions. Dent Mater Off Publ Acad Dent Mater. 2014 Nov; 30 (11): 1274–1279. Publisher Full Text 37. Schneider LFJ, Cavalcante LM, Consani S, et al. : Effect of co-initiator ratio on the polymer properties of experimental resin composites formulated with camphorquinone and phenyl-propanedione. Dent Mater Off Publ Acad Dent Mater. 2009 Mar; 25 (3): 369–375. Publisher Full Text 38. Cho K, Rajan G, Farrar P, et al. : Dental resin composites: A review on materials to product realizations. Compos. Part B Eng. 2022 Feb 1; 230 : 109495. Publisher Full Text 39. Schneider LFJ, Pfeifer CSC, Consani S, et al. : Influence of photoinitiator type on the rate of polymerization, degree of conversion, hardness and yellowing of dental resin composites. Dent. Mater. 2008 Sept 1; 24 (9): 1169–1177. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 40. Oxygen Inhibition in Dental Resins - ProQuest.[cited 2025 Dec 21]. Reference Source 41. Alayed A, Silikas N, Watts DC: The effect of photoinitiator systems on resin-based composite containing ZnO-nanoparticles. Dent. Mater. 2025 Feb 1; 41 (2): 220–228. PubMed Abstract | Publisher Full Text 42. Leprince JG, Palin WM, Hadis MA, et al. : Progress in dimethacrylate-based dental composite technology and curing efficiency. Dent Mater Off Publ Acad Dent Mater. 2013 Feb; 29 (2): 139–156. Publisher Full Text Comments on this article Comments (0) Version 1 VERSION 1 PUBLISHED 06 Feb 2026 ADD YOUR COMMENT Comment Author details Author details 1 Department of Clinical Sciences, Ajman University of Science and Technology College of Dentistry, Ajman, Ajman, 346, United Arab Emirates 2 Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University of Science and Technology College of Dentistry, Ajman, Ajman, 346, United Arab Emirates 3 Department of Clinical Dental Sciences, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia 4 Dental Clinics Department, King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia Jomana Alsenan Roles: Conceptualization, Data Curation, Formal Analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Project Administration, Resources, Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing – Original Draft Preparation, Writing – Review & Editing Sara Al-Ghamdi Roles: Conceptualization, Investigation, Methodology, Writing – Original Draft Preparation Dana Al-Senan Roles: Conceptualization, Data Curation, Formal Analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Project Administration, Resources, Supervision, Validation, Visualization, Writing – Original Draft Preparation, Writing – Review & Editing Competing interests No competing interests were disclosed. Grant information The author(s) declared that no grants were involved in supporting this work. Article Versions (1) version 1 Published: 06 Feb 2026, 15:201 https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.176121.1 Copyright © 2026 Alsenan J et al . This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Download Export To Sciwheel Bibtex EndNote ProCite Ref. Manager (RIS) Sente metrics Views Downloads F1000Research - - PubMed Central info_outline Data from PMC are received and updated monthly. - - Citations open_in_new 0 open_in_new 0 open_in_new SEE MORE DETAILS CITE how to cite this article Alsenan J, Al-Ghamdi S and Al-Senan D. Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.176121.1 ) NOTE: If applicable, it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in all citations of this article. COPY CITATION DETAILS track receive updates on this article Track an article to receive email alerts on any updates to this article. TRACK THIS ARTICLE Share Open Peer Review Current Reviewer Status: ? Key to Reviewer Statuses VIEW HIDE Approved The paper is scientifically sound in its current form and only minor, if any, improvements are suggested Approved with reservations A number of small changes, sometimes more significant revisions are required to address specific details and improve the papers academic merit. Not approved Fundamental flaws in the paper seriously undermine the findings and conclusions Version 1 VERSION 1 PUBLISHED 06 Feb 2026 Views 0 Cite How to cite this report: AL-Rawas M. Reviewer Report For: Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.194155.r474997 ) The direct URL for this report is: https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1#referee-response-474997 NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in this citation. Close Copy Citation Details Reviewer Report 05 May 2026 Matheel AL-Rawas , Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia Approved with Reservations VIEWS 0 https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.194155.r474997 This manuscript provides a very relevant and timely narrative review on photoinitiator systems in restorative dentistry and addresses a crucial topic as clinicians are facing increasingly complex modern resin formulations and curing lights. The main objective of comparing camphorquinone ... Continue reading READ ALL This manuscript provides a very relevant and timely narrative review on photoinitiator systems in restorative dentistry and addresses a crucial topic as clinicians are facing increasingly complex modern resin formulations and curing lights. The main objective of comparing camphorquinone with alternate systems is well served, and a good basis is provided for researchers and practitioners. In general this is a strong draft and will make a good contribution to the literature once a few technical details and structural flow issues have been addressed out. 1. The abstract is comprehensive, but is currently presented as one large block of text. If it were broken up into the standard headings (Background, Objective, Methods, Conclusion) it would be much easier to scan for busy readers. 2. When discussing the limitations on depth of cure for TPO and BAPO, it is important to explicitly mention the physics of shorter-wavelength violet light; because it scatters much more than blue light within the filled inorganic matrix, light penetration is inherently limited regardless of the chemical reactivity of the initiator. 3. You are right to mention the yellowing associated with CQ, but please clarify that the long term color instability is so heavily driven by the oxidation of the unreacted tertiary amine co-initiators over time and not just the innate color of the CQ molecule itself. 4. To add scientific depth to the section on "Factors affecting photoinitiator efficiency," briefly discuss how the refractive index of the resin matrix changes dynamically during polymerization, actively shifting light transmission and scattering during the actual curing cycle. 5. You mention oxygen inhibition at the surface; a short sentence on whether Type I (cleavage) or Type II (hydrogen-abstraction) initiators are more susceptible to this radical quenching would provide excellent context for clinical finishing protocols. 6. It would be very helpful to have a single schematic figure overlaying the absorption spectra of CQ, TPO and BAPO with the emission profiles of standard monowave and polywave LEDs. 7. In the section “Polymerization chemistry” there is a short mention of how bulky monomers such as Bis-GMA specifically restrict the diffusion of the larger bimolecular CQ/amine complexes compared to smaller Type I radicals when discussing monomer viscosity. This would tie the resin chemistry much more directly to the conversion outcomes. 8. There is a small grammatical hiccup in the "Photoinitiators" section. The phrase "However, challenge arises because their absorption limits..." is missing an article and should be "However, a challenge arises...". Is the topic of the review discussed comprehensively in the context of the current literature? Partly Are all factual statements correct and adequately supported by citations? Partly Is the review written in accessible language? Yes Are the conclusions drawn appropriate in the context of the current research literature? Partly Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed. Reviewer Expertise: Prosthodontics and dental materials I confirm that I have read this submission and believe that I have an appropriate level of expertise to confirm that it is of an acceptable scientific standard, however I have significant reservations, as outlined above. Close READ LESS CITE CITE HOW TO CITE THIS REPORT AL-Rawas M. Reviewer Report For: Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.194155.r474997 ) The direct URL for this report is: https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1#referee-response-474997 NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in all citations of this article. COPY CITATION DETAILS Report a concern Respond or Comment COMMENT ON THIS REPORT Views 0 Cite How to cite this report: Lopes-Rocha L. Reviewer Report For: Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.194155.r472845 ) The direct URL for this report is: https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1#referee-response-472845 NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in this citation. Close Copy Citation Details Reviewer Report 05 May 2026 Lígia Lopes-Rocha , Universitário de Ciências da Saúde (IUCS), CESPU, Portugal Approved with Reservations VIEWS 0 https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.194155.r472845 This manuscript addresses a clinically relevant and timely topic in restorative dentistry, focusing on photoinitiator systems in resin-based composites (RBCs). The authors provide an overview of conventional systems such as camphorquinone (CQ), as well as alternative photoinitiators including TPO, ... Continue reading READ ALL This manuscript addresses a clinically relevant and timely topic in restorative dentistry, focusing on photoinitiator systems in resin-based composites (RBCs). The authors provide an overview of conventional systems such as camphorquinone (CQ), as well as alternative photoinitiators including TPO, BAPO, and benzoyl germanium derivatives. The manuscript is generally well-structured and covers key aspects, including polymerization chemistry, initiator classification, and factors influencing the degree of conversion. However, in its current form, the review remains largely descriptive and offers limited critical synthesis or conceptual advancement beyond existing literature. Several aspects require clarification and strengthening to meet the expected level of scientific rigor and interpretative depth. Major Comments 1. Clarity of review type and title The manuscript does not clearly specify the type of review conducted (e.g., narrative, integrative, or systematic), which creates ambiguity regarding its methodological framework. The current title does not reflect the nature of the review. This lack of clarity affects how the reader interprets the level of evidence and methodological rigor. Recommendation: The authors should: Explicitly define the review type within the manuscript Revise the title accordingly, for example, by including “narrative review” or “integrative review.” This would significantly improve transparency and align the manuscript with best practices in review reporting. 2. Insufficient mechanistic depth Although photoinitiator systems are described (Type I vs Type II), the discussion remains largely descriptive. Limited analysis of: radical generation efficiency polymerization kinetics structure–reactivity relationships The connection between chemical structure and clinical performance is not fully developed. Recommendation: A more in-depth mechanistic discussion is encouraged, including: Comparison between α-cleavage and hydrogen abstraction mechanisms Their implications for polymer network formation and material properties 3. Limited discussion of clinically relevant trade-offs The manuscript outlines the advantages and limitations of different photoinitiators but does not sufficiently explore practical clinical trade-offs. Relevant aspects that require further development include: Esthetic benefits versus reduced depth of cure Increased reactivity versus potential cytotoxicity Spectral requirements versus real-world availability of curing units Recommendation: A dedicated section on clinical implications would significantly enhance the review's translational value. Minor Comments 1. Abbreviations and terminology Common monomers such as Bis-GMA, UDMA, and TEGDMA are not consistently defined at first mention. Recommendation: Provide full chemical names upon first use: Bis-GMA: bisphenol A glycidyl methacrylate UDMA: urethane dimethacrylate TEGDMA: triethylene glycol dimethacrylate This will improve clarity and accessibility. Overall Recommendation Approved with reservations The manuscript addresses a relevant topic and provides a useful overview. However, it would benefit from: greater critical depth improved conceptual integration clearer clinical applicability enhanced originality and positioning within existing literature Addressing these points would substantially strengthen the manuscript and its contribution to the field. Is the topic of the review discussed comprehensively in the context of the current literature? Yes Are all factual statements correct and adequately supported by citations? Yes Is the review written in accessible language? Yes Are the conclusions drawn appropriate in the context of the current research literature? Partly Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed. Reviewer Expertise: BPA, restorative dentistry, dental materials, resin-based composites I confirm that I have read this submission and believe that I have an appropriate level of expertise to confirm that it is of an acceptable scientific standard, however I have significant reservations, as outlined above. Close READ LESS CITE CITE HOW TO CITE THIS REPORT Lopes-Rocha L. Reviewer Report For: Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.194155.r472845 ) The direct URL for this report is: https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1#referee-response-472845 NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in all citations of this article. COPY CITATION DETAILS Report a concern Respond or Comment COMMENT ON THIS REPORT Views 0 Cite How to cite this report: SURADI R. Reviewer Report For: Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.194155.r457246 ) The direct URL for this report is: https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1#referee-response-457246 NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in this citation. Close Copy Citation Details Reviewer Report 26 Feb 2026 Raghib SURADI , Biruni University, Istanbul, Turkey Approved with Reservations VIEWS 0 https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.194155.r457246 REVIEWER REPORT General Overview This manuscript reviews photoinitiator systems used in dental resin-based composites (RBCs), focusing on camphorquinone (CQ) and alternative initiators such as TPO, BAPO, PPD, benzophenone, benzoyl germanium derivatives, and benzoyl peroxide. The topic is clinically ... Continue reading READ ALL REVIEWER REPORT General Overview This manuscript reviews photoinitiator systems used in dental resin-based composites (RBCs), focusing on camphorquinone (CQ) and alternative initiators such as TPO, BAPO, PPD, benzophenone, benzoyl germanium derivatives, and benzoyl peroxide. The topic is clinically relevant and timely, particularly in light of the increasing use of multi-peak LED curing units and the demand for improved esthetic and high-conversion restorative materials. The manuscript provides a structured overview of polymerization chemistry, initiator reactivity, toxicity considerations, and factors influencing degree of conversion. However, while the subject matter is appropriate and important, the manuscript requires substantial revisions to meet the standards of methodological transparency, scientific rigor, and critical analysis expected of a contemporary review article. 1. Review Methodology & Scientific Rigor (Major Concern) The review methodology requires significant strengthening to ensure academic transparency and reproducibility. While the authors state that a “comprehensive electronic literature search” was conducted (1984–2025; >30 articles), the manuscript lacks essential details necessary to assess the scientific rigor of the work. The following points must be addressed: Clarification of Review Type: The authors must explicitly state whether this manuscript is intended as a narrative review or a systematic review. Rationale for Methodology: While a "comprehensive" search is claimed, the current lack of a structured protocol (keywords, filters, or PRISMA flow) creates ambiguity. If it is a narrative review, this should be clearly stated; however, the selection of only 30+ studies over a 40-year span still requires justification to ensure transparency and minimize selection bias. Lack of Search Strategy: The manuscript does not specify the search keywords, Boolean operators, or database filters used to identify the cited literature. Undefined Selection Criteria: No clear inclusion or exclusion criteria are provided. The authors must specify the types of studies included (e.g., in vitro vs. clinical trials) to define the review’s scope effectively. 2. Scientific Accuracy & Content Clarifications LED Spectral Compatibility, Polywave LEDs are described within the “blue spectrum.” This is technically inaccurate. Polywave LCUs incorporate both blue and violet emission peaks (≈380–420 nm), which are critical for activating Type I photoinitiators such as TPO and BAPO. This should be corrected. Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO), BPO is primarily a redox (chemical-cure) initiator used in self- or dual-cure systems. The manuscript should clearly distinguish between purely light-activated systems and redox-initiated systems to avoid conceptual confusion. Ivocerin® Nomenclature, Ivocerin® should be presented generically as a benzoyl germanium derivative (e.g., Ivocerin®) to avoid commercial emphasis. Table 1 Improvement, To enhance clinical relevance, Table 1 should include an additional column indicating compatible LCU types (e.g., monowave LED, polywave LED, halogen). 3. Critical Comparative Analysis & Redundancy The manuscript is largely descriptive. To strengthen its scientific contribution: Claims regarding cytotoxicity (e.g., BAPO/TPO) should specify that most evidence is derived from in vitro studies. Where possible, include quantitative comparisons (e.g., DC %, depth of cure values, cytotoxicity fold-changes). Redundant discussions regarding violet light requirements of TPO/BAPO appear in multiple sections and should be consolidated. 4. Clinical Translation The manuscript would benefit from clearer clinical guidance: Can increased exposure time compensate for spectral mismatch? Are bulk-fill materials differently affected? What are practical recommendations for clinicians using monowave LCUs? Strengthening this section would significantly improve the translational value of the review. 5. Language, Structure & Formatting Minor but important corrections include: Correct “light-emtitting-diode” → “light-emitting diode.” Abbreviation: Use "LCU/LCUs" consistently without redundant parentheses after the first definition. Units: Ensure uniform formatting of "wt%" (weight percentage) across the text and Table 1. Overall Recommendation The topic is relevant and clinically meaningful. However, the manuscript requires major revision before it can be considered scientifically sound and indexing-ready. The most critical issues relate to methodological transparency, lack of explicit review structure, limited critical comparative analysis, and technical clarifications. Is the topic of the review discussed comprehensively in the context of the current literature? Partly Are all factual statements correct and adequately supported by citations? Partly Is the review written in accessible language? Partly Are the conclusions drawn appropriate in the context of the current research literature? Partly Competing Interests: No competing interests were disclosed. Reviewer Expertise: Restorative dentistry, dental materials, resin-based composites, photopolymerization, polymerization kinetics, light-curing technologies. I confirm that I have read this submission and believe that I have an appropriate level of expertise to confirm that it is of an acceptable scientific standard, however I have significant reservations, as outlined above. Close READ LESS CITE CITE HOW TO CITE THIS REPORT SURADI R. Reviewer Report For: Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.194155.r457246 ) The direct URL for this report is: https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1#referee-response-457246 NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in all citations of this article. COPY CITATION DETAILS Report a concern Respond or Comment COMMENT ON THIS REPORT Comments on this article Comments (0) Version 1 VERSION 1 PUBLISHED 06 Feb 2026 ADD YOUR COMMENT Comment keyboard_arrow_left keyboard_arrow_right Open Peer Review Reviewer Status info_outline Alongside their report, reviewers assign a status to the article: Approved The paper is scientifically sound in its current form and only minor, if any, improvements are suggested Approved with reservations A number of small changes, sometimes more significant revisions are required to address specific details and improve the papers academic merit. Not approved Fundamental flaws in the paper seriously undermine the findings and conclusions Reviewer Reports Invited Reviewers 1 2 3 Version 1 06 Feb 26 read read read Raghib SURADI , Biruni University, Istanbul, Turkey Lígia Lopes-Rocha , Universitário de Ciências da Saúde (IUCS), CESPU, Portugal Matheel AL-Rawas , Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia Comments on this article All Comments (0) Add a comment Sign up for content alerts Sign Up You are now signed up to receive this alert Browse by related subjects keyboard_arrow_left Back to all reports Reviewer Report 0 Views copyright © 2026 AL-Rawas M. This is an open access peer review report distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. 05 May 2026 | for Version 1 Matheel AL-Rawas , Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia 0 Views copyright © 2026 AL-Rawas M. This is an open access peer review report distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. format_quote Cite this report speaker_notes Responses (0) Approved With Reservations info_outline Alongside their report, reviewers assign a status to the article: Approved The paper is scientifically sound in its current form and only minor, if any, improvements are suggested Approved with reservations A number of small changes, sometimes more significant revisions are required to address specific details and improve the papers academic merit. Not approved Fundamental flaws in the paper seriously undermine the findings and conclusions This manuscript provides a very relevant and timely narrative review on photoinitiator systems in restorative dentistry and addresses a crucial topic as clinicians are facing increasingly complex modern resin formulations and curing lights. The main objective of comparing camphorquinone with alternate systems is well served, and a good basis is provided for researchers and practitioners. In general this is a strong draft and will make a good contribution to the literature once a few technical details and structural flow issues have been addressed out. 1. The abstract is comprehensive, but is currently presented as one large block of text. If it were broken up into the standard headings (Background, Objective, Methods, Conclusion) it would be much easier to scan for busy readers. 2. When discussing the limitations on depth of cure for TPO and BAPO, it is important to explicitly mention the physics of shorter-wavelength violet light; because it scatters much more than blue light within the filled inorganic matrix, light penetration is inherently limited regardless of the chemical reactivity of the initiator. 3. You are right to mention the yellowing associated with CQ, but please clarify that the long term color instability is so heavily driven by the oxidation of the unreacted tertiary amine co-initiators over time and not just the innate color of the CQ molecule itself. 4. To add scientific depth to the section on "Factors affecting photoinitiator efficiency," briefly discuss how the refractive index of the resin matrix changes dynamically during polymerization, actively shifting light transmission and scattering during the actual curing cycle. 5. You mention oxygen inhibition at the surface; a short sentence on whether Type I (cleavage) or Type II (hydrogen-abstraction) initiators are more susceptible to this radical quenching would provide excellent context for clinical finishing protocols. 6. It would be very helpful to have a single schematic figure overlaying the absorption spectra of CQ, TPO and BAPO with the emission profiles of standard monowave and polywave LEDs. 7. In the section “Polymerization chemistry” there is a short mention of how bulky monomers such as Bis-GMA specifically restrict the diffusion of the larger bimolecular CQ/amine complexes compared to smaller Type I radicals when discussing monomer viscosity. This would tie the resin chemistry much more directly to the conversion outcomes. 8. There is a small grammatical hiccup in the "Photoinitiators" section. The phrase "However, challenge arises because their absorption limits..." is missing an article and should be "However, a challenge arises...". Is the topic of the review discussed comprehensively in the context of the current literature? Partly Are all factual statements correct and adequately supported by citations? Partly Is the review written in accessible language? Yes Are the conclusions drawn appropriate in the context of the current research literature? Partly Competing Interests No competing interests were disclosed. Reviewer Expertise Prosthodontics and dental materials I confirm that I have read this submission and believe that I have an appropriate level of expertise to confirm that it is of an acceptable scientific standard, however I have significant reservations, as outlined above. reply Respond to this report Responses (0) AL-Rawas M. Peer Review Report For: Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.194155.r474997) NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in this citation. The direct URL for this report is: https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1#referee-response-474997 keyboard_arrow_left Back to all reports Reviewer Report 0 Views copyright © 2026 Lopes-Rocha L. This is an open access peer review report distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. 05 May 2026 | for Version 1 Lígia Lopes-Rocha , Universitário de Ciências da Saúde (IUCS), CESPU, Portugal 0 Views copyright © 2026 Lopes-Rocha L. This is an open access peer review report distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. format_quote Cite this report speaker_notes Responses (0) Approved With Reservations info_outline Alongside their report, reviewers assign a status to the article: Approved The paper is scientifically sound in its current form and only minor, if any, improvements are suggested Approved with reservations A number of small changes, sometimes more significant revisions are required to address specific details and improve the papers academic merit. Not approved Fundamental flaws in the paper seriously undermine the findings and conclusions This manuscript addresses a clinically relevant and timely topic in restorative dentistry, focusing on photoinitiator systems in resin-based composites (RBCs). The authors provide an overview of conventional systems such as camphorquinone (CQ), as well as alternative photoinitiators including TPO, BAPO, and benzoyl germanium derivatives. The manuscript is generally well-structured and covers key aspects, including polymerization chemistry, initiator classification, and factors influencing the degree of conversion. However, in its current form, the review remains largely descriptive and offers limited critical synthesis or conceptual advancement beyond existing literature. Several aspects require clarification and strengthening to meet the expected level of scientific rigor and interpretative depth. Major Comments 1. Clarity of review type and title The manuscript does not clearly specify the type of review conducted (e.g., narrative, integrative, or systematic), which creates ambiguity regarding its methodological framework. The current title does not reflect the nature of the review. This lack of clarity affects how the reader interprets the level of evidence and methodological rigor. Recommendation: The authors should: Explicitly define the review type within the manuscript Revise the title accordingly, for example, by including “narrative review” or “integrative review.” This would significantly improve transparency and align the manuscript with best practices in review reporting. 2. Insufficient mechanistic depth Although photoinitiator systems are described (Type I vs Type II), the discussion remains largely descriptive. Limited analysis of: radical generation efficiency polymerization kinetics structure–reactivity relationships The connection between chemical structure and clinical performance is not fully developed. Recommendation: A more in-depth mechanistic discussion is encouraged, including: Comparison between α-cleavage and hydrogen abstraction mechanisms Their implications for polymer network formation and material properties 3. Limited discussion of clinically relevant trade-offs The manuscript outlines the advantages and limitations of different photoinitiators but does not sufficiently explore practical clinical trade-offs. Relevant aspects that require further development include: Esthetic benefits versus reduced depth of cure Increased reactivity versus potential cytotoxicity Spectral requirements versus real-world availability of curing units Recommendation: A dedicated section on clinical implications would significantly enhance the review's translational value. Minor Comments 1. Abbreviations and terminology Common monomers such as Bis-GMA, UDMA, and TEGDMA are not consistently defined at first mention. Recommendation: Provide full chemical names upon first use: Bis-GMA: bisphenol A glycidyl methacrylate UDMA: urethane dimethacrylate TEGDMA: triethylene glycol dimethacrylate This will improve clarity and accessibility. Overall Recommendation Approved with reservations The manuscript addresses a relevant topic and provides a useful overview. However, it would benefit from: greater critical depth improved conceptual integration clearer clinical applicability enhanced originality and positioning within existing literature Addressing these points would substantially strengthen the manuscript and its contribution to the field. Is the topic of the review discussed comprehensively in the context of the current literature? Yes Are all factual statements correct and adequately supported by citations? Yes Is the review written in accessible language? Yes Are the conclusions drawn appropriate in the context of the current research literature? Partly Competing Interests No competing interests were disclosed. Reviewer Expertise BPA, restorative dentistry, dental materials, resin-based composites I confirm that I have read this submission and believe that I have an appropriate level of expertise to confirm that it is of an acceptable scientific standard, however I have significant reservations, as outlined above. reply Respond to this report Responses (0) Lopes-Rocha L. Peer Review Report For: Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.194155.r472845) NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in this citation. The direct URL for this report is: https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1#referee-response-472845 keyboard_arrow_left Back to all reports Reviewer Report 0 Views copyright © 2026 SURADI R. This is an open access peer review report distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. 26 Feb 2026 | for Version 1 Raghib SURADI , Biruni University, Istanbul, Turkey 0 Views copyright © 2026 SURADI R. This is an open access peer review report distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. format_quote Cite this report speaker_notes Responses (0) Approved With Reservations info_outline Alongside their report, reviewers assign a status to the article: Approved The paper is scientifically sound in its current form and only minor, if any, improvements are suggested Approved with reservations A number of small changes, sometimes more significant revisions are required to address specific details and improve the papers academic merit. Not approved Fundamental flaws in the paper seriously undermine the findings and conclusions REVIEWER REPORT General Overview This manuscript reviews photoinitiator systems used in dental resin-based composites (RBCs), focusing on camphorquinone (CQ) and alternative initiators such as TPO, BAPO, PPD, benzophenone, benzoyl germanium derivatives, and benzoyl peroxide. The topic is clinically relevant and timely, particularly in light of the increasing use of multi-peak LED curing units and the demand for improved esthetic and high-conversion restorative materials. The manuscript provides a structured overview of polymerization chemistry, initiator reactivity, toxicity considerations, and factors influencing degree of conversion. However, while the subject matter is appropriate and important, the manuscript requires substantial revisions to meet the standards of methodological transparency, scientific rigor, and critical analysis expected of a contemporary review article. 1. Review Methodology & Scientific Rigor (Major Concern) The review methodology requires significant strengthening to ensure academic transparency and reproducibility. While the authors state that a “comprehensive electronic literature search” was conducted (1984–2025; >30 articles), the manuscript lacks essential details necessary to assess the scientific rigor of the work. The following points must be addressed: Clarification of Review Type: The authors must explicitly state whether this manuscript is intended as a narrative review or a systematic review. Rationale for Methodology: While a "comprehensive" search is claimed, the current lack of a structured protocol (keywords, filters, or PRISMA flow) creates ambiguity. If it is a narrative review, this should be clearly stated; however, the selection of only 30+ studies over a 40-year span still requires justification to ensure transparency and minimize selection bias. Lack of Search Strategy: The manuscript does not specify the search keywords, Boolean operators, or database filters used to identify the cited literature. Undefined Selection Criteria: No clear inclusion or exclusion criteria are provided. The authors must specify the types of studies included (e.g., in vitro vs. clinical trials) to define the review’s scope effectively. 2. Scientific Accuracy & Content Clarifications LED Spectral Compatibility, Polywave LEDs are described within the “blue spectrum.” This is technically inaccurate. Polywave LCUs incorporate both blue and violet emission peaks (≈380–420 nm), which are critical for activating Type I photoinitiators such as TPO and BAPO. This should be corrected. Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO), BPO is primarily a redox (chemical-cure) initiator used in self- or dual-cure systems. The manuscript should clearly distinguish between purely light-activated systems and redox-initiated systems to avoid conceptual confusion. Ivocerin® Nomenclature, Ivocerin® should be presented generically as a benzoyl germanium derivative (e.g., Ivocerin®) to avoid commercial emphasis. Table 1 Improvement, To enhance clinical relevance, Table 1 should include an additional column indicating compatible LCU types (e.g., monowave LED, polywave LED, halogen). 3. Critical Comparative Analysis & Redundancy The manuscript is largely descriptive. To strengthen its scientific contribution: Claims regarding cytotoxicity (e.g., BAPO/TPO) should specify that most evidence is derived from in vitro studies. Where possible, include quantitative comparisons (e.g., DC %, depth of cure values, cytotoxicity fold-changes). Redundant discussions regarding violet light requirements of TPO/BAPO appear in multiple sections and should be consolidated. 4. Clinical Translation The manuscript would benefit from clearer clinical guidance: Can increased exposure time compensate for spectral mismatch? Are bulk-fill materials differently affected? What are practical recommendations for clinicians using monowave LCUs? Strengthening this section would significantly improve the translational value of the review. 5. Language, Structure & Formatting Minor but important corrections include: Correct “light-emtitting-diode” → “light-emitting diode.” Abbreviation: Use "LCU/LCUs" consistently without redundant parentheses after the first definition. Units: Ensure uniform formatting of "wt%" (weight percentage) across the text and Table 1. Overall Recommendation The topic is relevant and clinically meaningful. However, the manuscript requires major revision before it can be considered scientifically sound and indexing-ready. The most critical issues relate to methodological transparency, lack of explicit review structure, limited critical comparative analysis, and technical clarifications. Is the topic of the review discussed comprehensively in the context of the current literature? Partly Are all factual statements correct and adequately supported by citations? Partly Is the review written in accessible language? Partly Are the conclusions drawn appropriate in the context of the current research literature? Partly Competing Interests No competing interests were disclosed. Reviewer Expertise Restorative dentistry, dental materials, resin-based composites, photopolymerization, polymerization kinetics, light-curing technologies. I confirm that I have read this submission and believe that I have an appropriate level of expertise to confirm that it is of an acceptable scientific standard, however I have significant reservations, as outlined above. reply Respond to this report Responses (0) SURADI R. Peer Review Report For: Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms, Performance, and Clinical Implications [version 1; peer review: 3 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 2026, 15 :201 ( https://doi.org/10.5256/f1000research.194155.r457246) NOTE: it is important to ensure the information in square brackets after the title is included in this citation. The direct URL for this report is: https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1#referee-response-457246 Alongside their report, reviewers assign a status to the article: Approved - the paper is scientifically sound in its current form and only minor, if any, improvements are suggested Approved with reservations - A number of small changes, sometimes more significant revisions are required to address specific details and improve the papers academic merit. Not approved - fundamental flaws in the paper seriously undermine the findings and conclusions Adjust parameters to alter display View on desktop for interactive features Includes Interactive Elements View on desktop for interactive features Competing Interests Policy Provide sufficient details of any financial or non-financial competing interests to enable users to assess whether your comments might lead a reasonable person to question your impartiality. Consider the following examples, but note that this is not an exhaustive list: Examples of 'Non-Financial Competing Interests' Within the past 4 years, you have held joint grants, published or collaborated with any of the authors of the selected paper. You have a close personal relationship (e.g. parent, spouse, sibling, or domestic partner) with any of the authors. You are a close professional associate of any of the authors (e.g. scientific mentor, recent student). You work at the same institute as any of the authors. You hope/expect to benefit (e.g. favour or employment) as a result of your submission. You are an Editor for the journal in which the article is published. Examples of 'Financial Competing Interests' You expect to receive, or in the past 4 years have received, any of the following from any commercial organisation that may gain financially from your submission: a salary, fees, funding, reimbursements. You expect to receive, or in the past 4 years have received, shared grant support or other funding with any of the authors. You hold, or are currently applying for, any patents or significant stocks/shares relating to the subject matter of the paper you are commenting on. Stay Updated Sign up for content alerts and receive a weekly or monthly email with all newly published articles Register with F1000Research Already registered? Sign in Not now, thanks close PLEASE NOTE If you are an AUTHOR of this article, please check that you signed in with the account associated with this article otherwise we cannot automatically identify your role as an author and your comment will be labelled as a “User Comment”. If you are a REVIEWER of this article, please check that you have signed in with the account associated with this article and then go to your account to submit your report, please do not post your review here. If you do not have access to your original account, please contact us . All commenters must hold a formal affiliation as per our Policies . The information that you give us will be displayed next to your comment. User comments must be in English, comprehensible and relevant to the article under discussion. We reserve the right to remove any comments that we consider to be inappropriate, offensive or otherwise in breach of the User Comment Terms and Conditions . Commenters must not use a comment for personal attacks. When criticisms of the article are based on unpublished data, the data should be made available. I accept the User Comment Terms and Conditions Please confirm that you accept the User Comment Terms and Conditions. Affiliation ✕ refresh Please enter your institution. Note: To add your institution or organisation, start typing the name and then select the correct name from the list. Where applicable, the name will appear in both the original language and in English. Do not paste in the name. If the name does not appear in the drop-down list, we will display the information you have entered. ✕ refresh Country/Region * USA UK Canada China France Germany Afghanistan Aland Islands Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory British Virgin Islands Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Cook Islands Costa Rica Cote d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Democratic Republic of the Congo Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Federated States of Micronesia Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and Mcdonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kosovo (Serbia and Montenegro) Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macao Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Minor Outlying Islands of the United States Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands Antilles New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Korea North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestinian Territory Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Saint Helena Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Is South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand The Gambia The Netherlands Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu UK USA Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United States Virgin Islands Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Wallis and Futuna West Bank and Gaza Strip Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Please select your country/region. You must enter a comment. Competing Interests Please disclose any competing interests that might be construed to influence your judgment of the article's or peer review report's validity or importance. Competing Interests Policy Provide sufficient details of any financial or non-financial competing interests to enable users to assess whether your comments might lead a reasonable person to question your impartiality. Consider the following examples, but note that this is not an exhaustive list: Examples of 'Non-Financial Competing Interests' Within the past 4 years, you have held joint grants, published or collaborated with any of the authors of the selected paper. You have a close personal relationship (e.g. parent, spouse, sibling, or domestic partner) with any of the authors. You are a close professional associate of any of the authors (e.g. scientific mentor, recent student). You work at the same institute as any of the authors. You hope/expect to benefit (e.g. favour or employment) as a result of your submission. You are an Editor for the journal in which the article is published. Examples of 'Financial Competing Interests' You expect to receive, or in the past 4 years have received, any of the following from any commercial organisation that may gain financially from your submission: a salary, fees, funding, reimbursements. You expect to receive, or in the past 4 years have received, shared grant support or other funding with any of the authors. You hold, or are currently applying for, any patents or significant stocks/shares relating to the subject matter of the paper you are commenting on. Please state your competing interests The comment has been saved. An error has occurred. Please try again. Cancel Post var lTitle = "Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based...".replace("'", ''); var linkedInUrl = "http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?url=https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1" + "&title=" + encodeURIComponent(lTitle) + "&summary=" + encodeURIComponent('Read the article by '); var deliciousUrl = "https://del.icio.us/post?url=https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1&title=" + encodeURIComponent(lTitle); var redditUrl = "http://reddit.com/submit?url=https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1" + "&title=" + encodeURIComponent(lTitle); linkedInUrl += encodeURIComponent('Alsenan J et al.'); var offsetTop = /chrome/i.test( navigator.userAgent ) ? 4 : -10; var addthis_config = { ui_offset_top: offsetTop, services_compact : "facebook,twitter,www.linkedin.com,www.mendeley.com,reddit.com", services_expanded : "facebook,twitter,www.linkedin.com,www.mendeley.com,reddit.com", services_custom : [ { name: "LinkedIn", url: linkedInUrl, icon:"/img/icon/at_linkedin.svg" }, { name: "Mendeley", url: "http://www.mendeley.com/import/?url=https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1/mendeley", icon:"/img/icon/at_mendeley.svg" }, { name: "Reddit", url: redditUrl, icon:"/img/icon/at_reddit.svg" }, ] }; var addthis_share = { url: "https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201", templates : { twitter : "Photoinitiator Systems in Dental Resin-Based Composites: Mechanisms,.... Alsenan J et al., published by " + "@F1000Research" + ", https://f1000research.com/articles/15-201/v1" } }; if (typeof(addthis) != "undefined"){ addthis.addEventListener('addthis.ready', checkCount); addthis.addEventListener('addthis.menu.share', checkCount); } $(".f1r-shares-twitter").attr("href", "https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=" + addthis_share.templates.twitter); $(".f1r-shares-facebook").attr("href", "https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=" + addthis_share.url); $(".f1r-shares-linkedin").attr("href", addthis_config.services_custom[0].url); $(".f1r-shares-reddit").attr("href", addthis_config.services_custom[2].url); $(".f1r-shares-mendelay").attr("href", addthis_config.services_custom[1].url); function checkCount(){ setTimeout(function(){ $(".addthis_button_expanded").each(function(){ var count = $(this).text(); if (count !== "" && count != "0") $(this).removeClass("is-hidden"); else $(this).addClass("is-hidden"); }); }, 1000); } close How to cite this report {{reportCitation}} Cancel Copy Citation Details $(function(){R.ui.buttonDropdowns('.dropdown-for-downloads');}); $(function(){R.ui.toolbarDropdowns('.toolbar-dropdown-for-downloads');}); $.get("/articles/acj/176121/194155") new F1000.Clipboard(); new F1000.ThesaurusTermsDisplay("articles", "article", "194155"); $(document).ready(function() { $( "#frame1" ).on('load', function() { var mydiv = $(this).contents().find("div"); var h = mydiv.height(); console.log(h) }); var tooltipLivingFigure = jQuery(".interactive-living-figure-label .icon-more-info"), titleLivingFigure = tooltipLivingFigure.attr("title"); tooltipLivingFigure.simpletip({ fixed: true, position: ["-115", "30"], baseClass: 'small-tooltip', content:titleLivingFigure + " " }); tooltipLivingFigure.removeAttr("title"); $("body").on("click", ".cite-living-figure", function(e) { e.preventDefault(); var ref = $(this).attr("data-ref"); $(this).closest(".living-figure-list-container").find("#" + ref).fadeIn(200); }); $("body").on("click", ".close-cite-living-figure", function(e) { e.preventDefault(); $(this).closest(".popup-window-wrapper").fadeOut(200); }); $(document).on("mouseup", function(e) { var metricsContainer = $(".article-metrics-popover-wrapper"); if (!metricsContainer.is(e.target) && metricsContainer.has(e.target).length === 0) { $(".article-metrics-close-button").click(); } }); var articleId = $('#articleId').val(); if($("#main-article-count-box").attachArticleMetrics) { $("#main-article-count-box").attachArticleMetrics(articleId, { articleMetricsView: true }); } }); var figshareWidget = $(".new_figshare_widget"); if (figshareWidget.length > 0) { window.figshare.load("f1000", function(Widget) { // Select a tag/tags defined in your page. In this tag we will place the widget. _.map(figshareWidget, function(el){ var widget = new Widget({ articleId: $(el).attr("figshare_articleId") //height:300 // this is the height of the viewer part. [Default: 550] }); widget.initialize(); // initialize the widget widget.mount(el); // mount it in a tag that's on your page // this will save the widget on the global scope for later use from // your JS scripts. This line is optional. //window.widget = widget; }); }); } close Error Close Add Reset F1000.MICROSERVICES.AFFILIATION = ''; $(document).ready(function () { $('.js-affiliations-form').each((index, form) => { new AffiliationForm({ formId: form.id, institutionErrorSelector: '.comment-enter-institution', departmentErrorSelector: '.comment-enter-department', placeSelector: '.js-add-comment-place', stateSelector: '.js-add-comment-state', zipCodeSelector: '.js-add-comment-zipcode', countrySelector: '.js-add-comment-country', countryErrorSelector: '.comment-enter-country', }); }); }); $(document).ready(function () { var reportIds = { "472839": 0, "472847": 0, "472846": 0, "472845": 0, "472844": 0, "472843": 0, "472842": 0, "472841": 0, "472840": 0, "457238": 0, "457239": 0, "457237": 0, "472848": 0, "457246": 7, "457244": 0, "457245": 0, "457242": 0, "457243": 0, "457240": 0, "457241": 0, "471359": 0, "471358": 0, "471367": 0, "471366": 0, "471365": 0, "471364": 0, "471363": 0, "471362": 0, "471361": 0, "471360": 0, "461135": 0, "461134": 0, "461133": 0, "461142": 0, "461141": 0, "461140": 0, "461139": 0, "461138": 0, "461137": 0, "461136": 0, "474999": 0, "474998": 0, "474997": 0, "474996": 0, "475005": 0, "475004": 0, "475003": 0, "475002": 0, "475001": 0, "475000": 0, }; $(".referee-response-container,.js-referee-report").each(function(index, el) { var reportId = $(el).attr("data-reportid"), reportCount = reportIds[reportId] || 0; $(el).find(".comments-count-container,.js-referee-report-views").html(reportCount); }); var uuidInput = $("#article_uuid"), oldUUId = uuidInput.val(), newUUId = "25de7612-999e-4435-a9c0-96491c9a615d"; uuidInput.val(newUUId); $("a[href*='article_uuid=']").each(function(index, el) { var newHref = $(el).attr("href").replace(oldUUId, newUUId); $(el).attr("href", newHref); }); }); An innovative open access publishing platform offering rapid publication and open peer review, whilst supporting data deposition and sharing. Browse Gateways Collections How it Works Contact For Developers Cookie Notice Privacy Notice RSS Submit Your Research Follow us © 2012-2026 F1000 Research Ltd. ISSN 2046-1402 | Legal | Partner of Research4Life • CrossRef • ORCID • FAIRSharing R.templateTests.simpleTemplate = R.template(' $text $text $text $text $text '); R.templateTests.runTests(); var F1000platform = new F1000.Platform({ name: "f1000research", displayName: "F1000Research", hostName: "f1000research.com", id: "1", editorialEmail: "[email protected]", infoEmail: "[email protected]", usePmcStats: true }); $(function(){R.ui.dropdowns('.dropdown-for-authors, .dropdown-for-about, .dropdown-for-myresearch');}); // $(function(){R.ui.dropdowns('.dropdown-for-referees');}); $(document).ready(function () { if ($(".cookie-warning").is(":visible")) { $(".sticky").css("margin-bottom", "35px"); $(".devices").addClass("devices-and-cookie-warning"); } $(".cookie-warning .close-button").click(function (e) { $(".devices").removeClass("devices-and-cookie-warning"); $(".sticky").css("margin-bottom", "0"); }); $("#tweeter-feed .tweet-message").each(function (i, message) { var self = $(message); self.html(linkify(self.html())); }); $(".partner").on("mouseenter mouseleave", function() { $(this).find(".gray-scale, .colour").toggleClass("is-hidden"); }); }); Sign In Remember me Forgotten your password? Sign In Cancel Email or password not correct. Please try again Please wait... $(function(){ // Note: All the setup needs to run against a name attribute and *not* the id due the clonish // nature of facebox... $("a[id=googleSignInButton]").click(function(event){ event.preventDefault(); $("input[id=oAuthSystem]").val("GOOGLE"); $("form[id=oAuthForm]").submit(); }); $("a[id=facebookSignInButton]").click(function(event){ event.preventDefault(); $("input[id=oAuthSystem]").val("FACEBOOK"); $("form[id=oAuthForm]").submit(); }); $("a[id=orcidSignInButton]").click(function(event){ event.preventDefault(); $("input[id=oAuthSystem]").val("ORCID"); $("form[id=oAuthForm]").submit(); }); }); If you've forgotten your password, please enter your email address below and we'll send you instructions on how to reset your password. The email address should be the one you originally registered with F1000. Email address not valid, please try again You registered with F1000 via Google, so we cannot reset your password. To sign in, please click here . If you still need help with your Google account password, please click here . You registered with F1000 via Facebook, so we cannot reset your password. To sign in, please click here . If you still need help with your Facebook account password, please click here . Code not correct, please try again Reset password Cancel Email us for further assistance. Server error, please try again. If your email address is registered with us, we will email you instructions to reset your password. If you think you should have received this email but it has not arrived, please check your spam filters and/or contact for further assistance. Please wait... Register $(document).ready(function () { signIn.createSignInAsRow($("#sign-in-form-gfb-popup")); $(".target-field").each(function () { var uris = $(this).val().split("/"); if (uris.pop() === "login") { $(this).val(uris.toString().replace(",","/")); } }); });

Text is read by the "Ask this paper" AI Q&A widget below. Extraction quality varies by source — PMC NXML preserves structure cleanly, OA-HTML may include some navigation residue, and OA-PDF can have broken hyphenation. The publisher copy (via DOI) is the canonical version.

My notes (saved in your browser only)

Ask this paper AI returns verbatim quotes from the full text · source: preprint-html

Answers must be backed by verbatim quotes from this paper's full text. Hallucinated quotes are dropped automatically; if no verbatim passage answers the question, we say so. How this works

Citation neighborhood (no data yet)

We don't have any in-corpus citations linked to this paper yet. This is a recent paper (2026) — citers typically take a year or two to land, and the OpenAlex reference graph may still be filling in.

Source provenance

europepmc
last seen: 2026-05-20T01:45:00.602351+00:00
unpaywall
last seen: 2026-05-28T02:00:01.590549+00:00
License: CC-BY-4.0