3D printers could be dangerous for air quality
New research suggests that entry-level 3D printers could cause a health risk by spreading ultrafine particles.
According to research conducted in the United States by a team of the Georgia Institute of Technology and UL Chemical Safety, entry-level 3D printers that work from plastic filament, those that target individuals, emit various particles, some ultrafine likely to be inhaled and affect respiratory health.
“These printers tend to produce very small particles, especially at the beginning of the printing process, and in a poorly ventilated environment, they could significantly reduce indoor air quality,” says Rodney Weber, a Georgia Tech’s professor. School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences who led the research.
Scientists say they have identified more than 200 volatile organic compounds, many of which are known or suspected carcinogens. Several factors have an impact on the importance of these emissions, especially the extrusion temperature, the material and the brand of the filament.
For the authors of this study, it is necessary to invest more in scientific research and the risk assessment that 3D printers can have with regard to health.
