A new study shows that the fumes from 3D printers can pose a risk to human health

The global 3D printing market was valued at $13.84B in 2021 and is expected to reach $16.75B by the end of 2022. 3D printing has evolved from 3D printing to medical implants. Automotive parts, custom food, medicine and clothing. In the year In 2015, Apricia Pharmaceuticals 3D printed the FDA-approved Spritam levetiracetam. Last month in September 2022, adidas released their debut. 3D printed 4DFWD running shoes.

There are two important components in the 3D printing process, heat and materials. Substrate material is the physical structure of a part. Heat is applied to melt the source material so that it can be pressed into a part.

Substrate materials are made from nylon and other common plastics, which emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at high temperatures. VOCs include harmful chemicals from 3D printers and carcinogens such as styrene.

Unseen hazards that occur when applying heat make the 3D printing process dangerous in an uncontrolled environment.

brand new Report from Chemical Insights Research Institute In collaboration with Georgia State University School of Public Health It has been shown that particles released into the air and inhaled by users during the printing of FFF (Fued filament fabrication) devices can contribute to human health risks, including damage to human cells and inflammation.

According to Marilyn Black, Ph.D. and vice president and senior technical and strategic advisor at Chemical Insights Research Institute of Underwriters Laboratories, in the study found that particulate pollution released by 3D printers is ultrafine particles that can be easily inhaled into the respiratory system.

“It’s similar to air pollution from vehicle exhaust if someone sits on a heavily traveled freeway. This pollution is associated with lung and heart disease or cardiopulmonary disease,” he said.

However, Black said consumers can take proactive steps to reduce human exposure, including adding more room ventilation and opening windows to keep pollutants out of the room. “Another step is to use a certified air purifier with a HEPA filter to remove small particles and work near the printer,” he said.

“You can also purchase low-emission printers that are certified to UL standard 2904. And often use a printer enclosure that includes a HEPA filtration system provided by the printer manufacturer,” Black adds.