PLA is generally considered to be safe to print indoors, as it does not emit harmful fumes or odors. However, some precautions are still recommended to ensure a healthy and comfortable printing environment.
PLA, or polylactic acid, is one of the most popular materials for 3D printing, especially for beginners and hobbyists. It is a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugar cane. PLA has many advantages, such as being easy to print, having a low melting point, and being available in a wide range of colors and finishes.
But is PLA safe to print indoors? This is a common question among 3D printing enthusiasts, as some materials, such as ABS or nylon, are known to release toxic or unpleasant gases when heated. These gases can cause health issues, such as headaches, nausea, eye irritation, or respiratory problems, if inhaled for prolonged periods. Therefore, printing with these materials requires proper ventilation, filtration, or enclosure.
Fortunately, PLA is generally considered to be safe to print indoors, as it does not emit harmful fumes or odors. According to a study by the Illinois Institute of Technology, PLA is the least toxic among the tested filaments, and its emissions are comparable to cooking oils. Another study by the University of Texas at Austin found that PLA has the lowest emission rates and the highest safe exposure levels among the tested materials.
However, this does not mean that PLA is completely harmless or that no precautions are needed. PLA still produces ultrafine particles (UFPs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when heated, which can have negative effects on health and air quality. UFPs are tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, and may cause inflammation, oxidative stress, or cardiovascular diseases. VOCs are organic chemicals that can evaporate into the air, and may cause irritation, allergies, or cancer.
Therefore, some safety measures are still recommended to ensure a healthy and comfortable printing environment. These include:
Printing in a well-ventilated area, such as near a window or a fan, to disperse the emissions and improve the air circulation.
Using a HEPA filter, a carbon filter, or both, to capture the UFPs and VOCs and reduce their concentration in the air.
Using an enclosure, such as a box or a cabinet, to contain the emissions and prevent them from spreading to other rooms or people.
Wearing a respirator, a mask, or other personal protective equipment, to avoid direct inhalation of the emissions and protect the eyes and skin from irritation.
Printing at the lowest possible temperature and speed, to minimize the amount of emissions and improve the print quality.
Choosing high-quality PLA filaments from reputable brands, to avoid impurities, additives, or contaminants that may increase the toxicity or odor of the material.
Conclusion
PLA is generally safe to print indoors, as it does not emit harmful fumes or odors. However, some precautions are still recommended to ensure a healthy and comfortable printing environment. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy 3D printing with PLA without compromising your health or well-being.
