3D Printing is becoming very much an indispensable tool in our everyday lives. We can develop products that can be used immediately or used as prototypes for an even better product. From aerospace to medicine, to military, 3D printing is being used to improve our lives. In airsoft, product developers have resorted to 3D printers for rapid prototyping of airsoft guns and accessories; and in some cases have designed products made specifically for airsoft players and available at 3D print markets.
But sometimes a good thing can have a bad thing. In this case, researchers have advised that those doing 3D printing should be in well-ventilated places or use an enclosed 3D printer with a vent as the fumes can be bad for their health.
In a study by French and US researchers published in Environmental Science & Technology, the filaments used in 3D printing emit styrene, which is a possible carcinogen and at levels above the limits set by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment. These filaments are ABS, Nylon, PLA, PC, PVA, and similar materials are said to be emitting styrene when the particles emitted by five 3D printers when tested.
But for those who PLA for 3D Printing, they do not have to worry as this emit lactide which is considered to be non-toxic. Perhaps users should look into using more PLA just on the safe side, especially for initial product designs.
The 3D printers do not matter as the fume levels do not vary much from different printer models.
The recommendations by the researchers are not exactly hard to follow. It is best to have some kind of a ventilation system when doing 3D printing whether as a hobby or for commercial purposes. For airsoft product developers, who are increasing as 3D printing is now widely available and affordable; this should be something that they should do when doing product development.