Objective: To evaluate the effects of varying numbers of layers of plaster of Paris bandages on the mechanical properties of specimens
used on the construction of orthopedic splints. Methods: Rectangular plate-shaped and cylinder-shaped specimens were constructed
and assigned to two groups simulating plaster slabs and cast and further divided into six subgroups according to the number of layers
used: 3, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 layers. The specimens were subjected to either a three-point bending test (plates/slab) or compressive
strength test (cylinders/cast). The following mechanical properties were evaluated: maximum load, elastic limit load and stiffness.
Specimen weight was also calculated. Data was analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and the least significant difference (LSD) tests. Results:
Pairwise comparisons of the subgroups 10x12 and 10x14 revealed significant differences for all mechanical properties (p