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Environment, Health and Safety

3D Media and Printer Review

This is a review of 3D printer media types and printers. Please consult with EHS for additional information pertaining to 3D printers and Marker Space reviews.

3D Printer Media Review
Printer Media	Health and Safety Concerns
PLA	Ultra fine particulate Low toxicity Some Odor
ABS	Ultrafine particulate Carcinogenic Strong Odors
Nylon	Ultrafine particulate Strong Odors
CPE	Irritations Strong Odor Potential aldehydes released with high temperatures
PVA	Strong Odors
Flex	Thermal decomposition may result in release of toxic airborne contaminates which can be irritating to eyes, skin and respiratory tract.
T-glaseAKA: PEGTPolyethylene Terephthalate	Strong Odors
WoodfillFibers of wood are in PLA	Ultrafine particualte
CopperfillCopper Particulates in PLA	Health hazard potential with Copper Waste Hazard due to the Cu
BrassfillBrass Powder in PLA	Health Hazard potential Waste Hazard potential

3D Printer Review
Printer Manufacturer	Printing Material	Health and Safety Concerns
Makerbot 5th Gen Replicator and Replicator Mini	PLA	Ultra fine particulate Low toxicity Some Ordor
TKI Kossel	PLA	Ultra Fine Particulate Low Toxicity Some Odor
Ultimaker 3	PLA, ABS, Nylon, CPE, PVA	PLA: See Above ABS: Ultrafine particulate Carcinogenic Strong odors Nylon, PVA: Ultrafine particulate Strong Odors CPE: Potential Aldehyde exposure/odor
FlashForge Creator Pro	ABS	Ultrafine particulate Carcinogenic Strong odors

Concerns:

Layout of room
- Number of computers
- Additional Printers?
- Storage of materials
- Storage of cleaning agents
Ventilation for odors
Supervised Space
- Procedures for each printer
Material Change out
- Procedure for cleaning and Changing out filaments
Restrictions on using multiple materials per printer

*To be reviewed and updated periodically based on printers reviewed on campus