The most toxic materials in 3D printing are resin, ABS, and nylon, which can release harmful fumes and particles that can cause irritation, inflammation, allergic reactions, and even cancer. These materials should be handled with care and printed in a well-ventilated area with proper filtration. PLA, on the other hand, is considered the least toxic material, as it is made from biodegradable corn starch and emits a mild, sweet smell.
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects by depositing layers of material on top of each other. 3D printing has many applications, such as prototyping, education, art, medicine, and hobby. However, 3D printing also has some drawbacks, especially when it comes to the impact of the materials used on human health and the environment.
In this article, we will explore the toxicity of different 3D printing materials, the health risks associated with them, and the best practices to minimize exposure and ensure safety while using 3D printers.
Resin is a liquid material that is cured by ultraviolet (UV) light to form solid objects. Resin is used in stereolithography (SLA) and digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing technologies, which produce high-resolution and smooth-surfaced models. Resin is also used in some FDM (fused deposition modeling) printers as a support material that can be dissolved after printing.
However, resin is also one of the most toxic materials in 3D printing, as it contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and ultrafine particles that can be harmful to human health. According to this article, common toxic ingredients found in 3D printing resin include acrylates, epoxies, and urethanes. Acrylates, which are commonly found in acrylic resins, can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Epoxies, which are used in epoxy resins, can cause allergic reactions and may be carcinogenic. Urethanes, which are used in polyurethane resins, can cause skin sensitization and asthma.
Some of the symptoms of resin exposure include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, coughing, sneezing, and shortness of breath. Long-term exposure to resin can lead to chronic respiratory problems, skin disorders, liver damage, and cancer.
To reduce the toxicity of resin, it is recommended to use gloves, goggles, masks, and aprons when handling resin, and to wash hands and tools thoroughly after use. It is also important to print resin in a well-ventilated area with an air purifier or an exhaust fan, and to dispose of resin waste properly according to local regulations.
ABS
ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is a thermoplastic material that is widely used in FDM 3D printing, as it is strong, durable, flexible, and heat-resistant. ABS is also easy to sand, paint, and glue, making it ideal for post-processing and finishing. ABS is commonly used for making functional parts, such as gears, brackets, cases, and toys.
However, ABS is also known to emit more harmful fumes compared to PLA (polylactic acid), which is another popular FDM material. ABS fumes contain styrene, which is a VOC that can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, and may also affect the nervous system and the liver. Styrene is also classified as a possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). According to this article, ABS fumes can also contain other toxic substances, such as acrylonitrile, butadiene, and cyanide.
Some of the symptoms of ABS exposure include headache, drowsiness, confusion, nausea, and vomiting. Long-term exposure to ABS can lead to chronic respiratory problems, skin rashes, and cancer.
To reduce the toxicity of ABS, it is recommended to print ABS in a well-ventilated area with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter or an activated carbon filter, and to avoid inhaling the fumes directly. It is also advisable to use an enclosure for the printer to contain the fumes and to prevent warping and cracking of the printed parts due to temperature changes.
Nylon
Nylon is another thermoplastic material that is used in FDM 3D printing, as it is strong, flexible, abrasion-resistant, and heat-resistant. Nylon is also resistant to chemicals, water, and UV light, making it suitable for outdoor and industrial applications. Nylon is often used for making gears, hinges, belts, and clothing.
However, nylon is also one of the most toxic materials in 3D printing, as it emits significant amounts of VOCs and ultrafine particles. Nylon fumes contain caprolactam, which is a VOC that can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, and may also affect the kidneys and the liver. Caprolactam is also classified as a possible human carcinogen by the IARC. According to this article, nylon fumes can also contain other toxic substances, such as ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, and nitrous oxide.
Some of the symptoms of nylon exposure include headache, nausea, dizziness, coughing, and wheezing. Long-term exposure to nylon can lead to chronic respiratory problems, skin disorders, and cancer.
To reduce the toxicity of nylon, it is recommended to print nylon in a well-ventilated area with a HEPA filter or an activated carbon filter, and to avoid inhaling the fumes directly. It is also advisable to use an enclosure for the printer to contain the fumes and to prevent moisture absorption and warping of the printed parts due to humidity changes.
PLA
PLA (polylactic acid) is a biodegradable material that is made from corn starch or sugarcane. PLA is the most widely used material in FDM 3D printing, as it is easy to print, low-cost, and eco-friendly. PLA is also available in a variety of colors and finishes, such as transparent, metallic, and glow-in-the-dark. PLA is commonly used for making decorative items, such as figurines, jewelry, and vases.
PLA is considered the least toxic material in 3D printing, as it emits a mild, sweet smell and does not contain any harmful VOCs or particles. PLA fumes contain lactic acid, which is a natural substance that is found in the human body and in fermented foods. Lactic acid is generally harmless and can even have some health benefits, such as improving digestion and boosting immunity. However, some people may still experience some irritation or allergy to PLA fumes, especially if they have a pre-existing condition or a sensitivity to lactose.
Some of the symptoms of PLA exposure include eye, nose, and throat irritation, sneezing, and runny nose. These symptoms are usually mild and temporary, and can be relieved by drinking water or taking antihistamines.
To reduce the toxicity of PLA, it is recommended to print PLA in a well-ventilated area with a fan or a window, and to avoid inhaling the fumes directly. It is also advisable to use a lower printing temperature and a higher printing speed to minimize the amount of fumes produced.
Conclusion
3D printing is a fascinating and useful technology, but it also comes with some potential health hazards due to the toxicity of some materials. Resin, ABS, and nylon are the most toxic materials in 3D printing, as they can release harmful fumes and particles that can cause irritation, inflammation, allergic reactions, and even cancer. PLA, on the other hand, is the least toxic material, as it is made from biodegradable corn starch and emits a mild, sweet smell.
To ensure safety while using 3D printers, it is important to follow some best practices, such as:
Choosing the right material for the right application and the right environment
Using gloves, goggles, masks, and aprons when handling resin and other toxic materials
Printing in a well-ventilated area with proper filtration and ventilation
Using an enclosure for the printer to contain the fumes and to improve the print quality
Disposing of the waste materials properly according to local regulations
Seeking medical attention if any symptoms of exposure persist or worsen
By following these tips, you can enjoy 3D printing without compromising your health and the environment. Happy printing!
