PLA is generally non-toxic and safe for humans, but it may release some harmful fumes and particles when heated at high temperatures during 3D printing.
PLA, or polylactic acid, is a popular and widely used material for 3D printing, due to its low cost, easy accessibility, and environmentally friendly nature. PLA is made from renewable resources such as cornstarch, sugarcane, or cassava, and can be biodegraded or composted under certain conditions. However, many users have raised questions about the potential toxicity of PLA and whether it poses a threat to their health or the environment. In this article, we will explore the safety of PLA, its possible health effects, and how to minimize the risks associated with PLA fumes and particles.
During the 3D printing process, when PLA filament is heated through the printer’s hot end, it releases fumes and particles – a phenomenon common with thermoplastics. These PLA emissions, primarily consist of ultrafine particles (UFPs) and, to a lesser extent, volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
UFPs are particles less than 0.1 micrometers in diameter, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. UFPs can cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular damage, potentially compromising lung function and increasing the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
VOCs are organic chemicals that evaporate or vaporize at room temperature, and can have various effects on human health, depending on the type and concentration of the compound. Some VOCs, such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and styrene, are known or suspected carcinogens, while others can cause irritation, headache, nausea, or drowsiness.
Based on current research and data, PLA fumes and particles are not considered to be highly toxic or dangerous to human health. PLA is generally regarded as a safe and biocompatible material, and does not contain any hazardous substances such as phthalates, bisphenol A, or heavy metals. PLA also has a relatively low melting point, which means it requires less heat and energy to print, and produces fewer emissions than other materials such as ABS or Nylon.
However, this does not mean that PLA is completely risk-free or harmless. PLA still emits UFPs and VOCs, which can have negative effects on health with long-term or high-level exposure. According to a publication from Environmental Science & Technology, PLA fumes can induce cellular toxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses in human lung cells, especially at high concentrations. Moreover, PLA fumes can also trigger allergic reactions or asthma attacks in some individuals, especially those with respiratory sensitivity or pre-existing conditions.
Therefore, it is important to take precautions and use proper ventilation when 3D printing with PLA, to avoid inhaling excessive amounts of fumes and particles. While PLA is safer than most other 3D printing materials, it is not completely safe to breathe in its emissions.
How to Reduce the Risks of PLA Fumes and Particles?
There are several ways to reduce the risks of PLA fumes and particles, and to ensure a safe and healthy 3D printing experience. Some of the best practices are:
Use a well-ventilated area for 3D printing, and avoid printing in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. Open windows or doors, or use fans or air conditioners, to create air circulation and dilute the fumes and particles.
Use a 3D printer enclosure with a filter or an exhaust system, to capture or remove the fumes and particles from the printing area. There are many options for 3D printer enclosures, ranging from DIY solutions to commercial products, that can improve the air quality and reduce the noise and odor of 3D printing.
Use a high-quality PLA filament that has low impurities and additives, and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the optimal printing temperature and speed. Avoid overheating or over-extruding the filament, as this can increase the amount and toxicity of the fumes and particles.
Wear personal protective equipment, such as a respirator, a mask, or goggles, when 3D printing or handling the printed objects, to prevent inhalation or contact with the fumes and particles. Choose a respirator or a mask that can filter out UFPs and VOCs, and make sure it fits properly and is comfortable to wear.
Keep children, pets, and people with respiratory or health issues away from the 3D printer, as they may be more vulnerable or sensitive to the fumes and particles. Also, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking near the 3D printer, as this can increase the exposure or ingestion of the emissions.
PLA is a non-toxic and eco-friendly material for 3D printing, but it may release some harmful fumes and particles when heated at high temperatures. While PLA fumes and particles are not highly toxic, they can still cause health problems with long-term or high-level exposure, especially for people with respiratory sensitivity or pre-existing conditions. Therefore, it is advisable to use proper ventilation, filtration, protection, and precaution when 3D printing with PLA, to ensure a safe and healthy 3D printing experience.
