3D printers emit dangerous fumes and nanoparticles

Published 13 December 2024 at 14.04

Domestic. 3D printers have become increasingly popular in homes, schools and libraries. But now the Chemicals Agency warns that the devices release dangerous vapors and very small particles harmful to health, including so-called nanoparticles.

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3D printers can produce three-dimensional objects by building them layer by layer from a digital drawing.

Both professionals and private individuals now have access to the technology, and schools are also using this type of printer in their education. The most common 3D printers used by consumers today are so-called filament printers, which use a plastic thread as the printing material.

The product printed in 3D printers has not gone through the same standardized tests as goods otherwise done. For example, if you use the printer to make toys, the toy does not pass the standardized tests that exist to protect children from dangerous chemicals and small parts that could pose a choking hazard to the child.

– Particles and vapors that the printer emits on their own can also be harmful to health and we need to raise awareness of the risks associated with these, especially to protect children both when they are at school and at home, says Bert-Ove Lund, toxicologist at The Swedish Chemicals Agency and a member of the Toxicological Council.

Researchers have also found that 3D printers can emit nanoparticles. These are very small particles in the size range of 1–100 nanometers, i.e. between 1,000 and 10,000 times smaller than a human cell.

– These particles have been shown in studies to be able to penetrate deep into the lungs where they can cause inflammation and damage tissues, says Penny Nymark, toxicologist and investigator at the Chemicals Inspectorate.

To reduce the spread of air pollution and other unwanted exposure from For 3D filament printers, the Swedish Chemicals Agency, together with the Swedish Work Environment Agency, has compiled recommendations for use at home and in public premises, such as schools and libraries.