3D printing can be carcinogenic if proper safety measures are not taken, as it emits harmful fumes that contain ultrafine particles and volatile organic compounds. These fumes can cause inflammation, irritation, and respiratory problems, and some of them are classified as carcinogens by federal agencies. Therefore, it is important to use 3D printers in well-ventilated areas, wear protective equipment, and choose low-emission filaments.
3D printers work by melting and extruding plastic, metal, or resin materials to create objects layer by layer. During this process, they emit fumes that contain two categories of ingredients: ultrafine particles (UFPs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
UFPs are tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause inflammation and oxidative stress. VOCs are gaseous substances that can evaporate from certain solids and liquids. Some VOCs are harmless and have a pleasant smell, while others can have negative health effects, such as irritation, headache, dizziness, and nausea. Some VOCs, such as styrene, are also known to be carcinogenic, meaning they can increase the risk of cancer with long-term exposure.
The level and type of fumes emitted by 3D printers depend on several factors, such as the filament material, the printer model, the printing temperature, the printing speed, and the printing duration. According to a study by the Illinois Institute of Technology, ABS and PLA filaments were found to have higher potential to trigger allergies or inflammation than other filaments. ABS filaments also tend to emit more UFPs and VOCs than PLA filaments, making them more hazardous.
3D printing fumes can affect your health in various ways, depending on the exposure level, duration, and frequency. Some of the possible health effects are:
Allergic reactions: Some people may be sensitive or allergic to certain ingredients in 3D printing filaments, such as acrylonitrile in ABS or lactic acid in PLA. Exposure to these fumes can trigger symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, wheezing, itching, and rashes.
Eye, nose, and throat irritation: 3D printing fumes can irritate the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and throat, causing redness, burning, dryness, and soreness. These symptoms can be more severe for people with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Respiratory problems: 3D printing fumes can cause inflammation and damage to the respiratory system, leading to breathing difficulties, chest tightness, bronchitis, and pneumonia. In severe cases, 3D printing fumes can also cause lung cancer, especially if they contain carcinogenic VOCs such as styrene or formaldehyde.
Skin contact: 3D printing fumes can also contact the skin, either directly or indirectly, and cause irritation, inflammation, or chemical burns. This can happen if the fumes condense on the skin or if the skin touches the hot nozzle or the printed object. Some 3D printing materials, such as resin, can also cause allergic dermatitis or photosensitivity.
Neurological effects: 3D printing fumes can affect the nervous system, causing headaches, dizziness, fatigue, mood changes, and memory loss. Some VOCs, such as benzene, can also cause nerve damage or brain cancer with chronic exposure.
The best way to reduce the risk of 3D printing fumes is to avoid or minimize exposure to them. Here are some tips to do so:
Use 3D printers in well-ventilated areas, such as outdoors or near windows or fans. This can help disperse the fumes and improve the air quality.
Wear protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, masks, or respirators, when handling 3D printers or printed objects. This can prevent direct contact with the fumes or the materials.
Choose low-emission filaments, such as PLA, PETG, or nylon, over high-emission filaments, such as ABS, HIPS, or resin. This can reduce the amount and toxicity of the fumes produced.
Adjust the printer settings, such as the temperature, speed, and layer height, to optimize the printing quality and efficiency. This can reduce the waste and emission of the materials.
Clean and maintain the printer regularly, such as by replacing the filters, nozzles, and extruders, to ensure its proper functioning and performance. This can prevent clogging, overheating, or malfunctioning of the printer, which can increase the fume emission.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines when using 3D printers or printed objects. This can help you avoid potential hazards or risks associated with 3D printing.
Conclusion
3D printing is a fascinating and innovative technology that can create amazing objects and products. However, it also comes with some health risks, as it emits harmful fumes that can cause inflammation, irritation, respiratory problems, and cancer. Therefore, it is important to use 3D printers safely and responsibly, by following the tips and precautions mentioned above. By doing so, you can enjoy the benefits of 3D printing without compromising your health.
