The flexural strength of amalgam specimens was increased significantly by the application of ductile metal laminates in regions that are subjected to tensile forces and perpendicular to the direction of the applied force. Laminates were silver-tin alloy, pure gold, pure silver, and silver-plated stainless steel. The embedded stainless steel laminate in a thickness of 0.0015 inches was the most effective. Substantial strengthening also was noted with an embedded stainless steel laminate in a Class II restoration of a typodont tooth.
