3D Printers and Potential Indoor Air Quality Concerns Examined in New Study

Researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology published a study in a September issue of the journal, Environmental Science & Technology. The study examined the impact 3D printers can have on indoor air quality (IAQ) and respiratory health.

3D printers have come under increasing scrutiny over the past several years due to the fact that these popular devices emit ultrafine particles (UFPs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when in use. This occurs when plastic filaments are heated and used to create a 3D item.

For the study, particles emitted from the printers were collected and a chemical analysis was performed. Cells from humans and rats were also exposed to concentrations of the particles to examine how they would react. In addition, the study discussed how these printers used in a home, school or commercial building could have a different impact on IAQ issues due to factors such as varying rates of ventilation.

“After multiple published studies over the past several years, it is clear that 3D printers can pose an inhalation risk to people in some circumstances,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Just last year, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) published a science blog on the topic. In it, suggestions to mitigate these exposure concerns were addressed. They included implementing engineering controls such as ventilation, local exhaust duct connections and particulate filtration. The blog also stressed the importance of more research to identify low emitting filaments.”

EMSL Analytical, Inc. is one of the leading indoor air quality and product emission testing laboratories. Their specialists offer air testing analysis, sampling supplies and monitoring instruments to identify VOCs and particulate matter (PM). EMSL has even sponsored an educational video about 3D printers and potential airborne exposure concerns that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/4oTy8KUbAeY.

To learn more about air or product testing for VOCs and UFPs or other occupational, environmental, IAQ, health and safety services, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com .


About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with over 46 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail