Surely a question that arises when dealing with 3D printing is, is ABS filament toxic? Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is a much used thermoplastic filament that is valued for its toughness, heatability and the ability to be mechanically stressed. Although ABS filament is ideal for producing durable parts, there are some safety points, especially for the emissions of gases that it can release during the printing process.
How Toxic is ABS Filament?
It is not known to be toxic in solid form for ABS filament. Nevertheless, it releases toxic fumes when heated by the 3D printing process, which can be dangerous to human health. These fumes, which contain gases and microscopic particles, may cause discomfort such as nausea, headaches, eye irritation, and drowsiness. Although these fumes are not directly toxic, chronic inhalation can cause irritation in the respiratory tract and may cause serious health complications related to the lungs. Moreover, the fumes have also been linked to a carcinogenic feature, hence, adequate precautions have to be taken.
Is ABS Filament Food Safe?
An interesting question is whether the ABS filament is of food grade. Unfortunately, ABS filament is not food safe. The material is known to liberate toxic materials when heated above a certain temperature which may be considered a threat to food safety. When producing food items in a 3D printer, for example, it is also advisable to avoid such filaments as it is suggested to obtain another to be used for the food items if such filament is found to be in contact with food as opposed to PLA-like filaments which are considered safe for food contact when used appropriately.
What About Food-Safe ABS Filament?
Although traditional ABS filament cannot be used for food purposes, there exist specific kinds of ABS filaments called food-safe ABS filament. These filaments are specifically formulated and processed to guarantee the absence of any potentially deleterious chemicals and additives which may leach into food. Nevertheless, these filaments still need to be handled with care and appropriate post-processing techniques (e.g., sealing or coating) may be necessary in order to comply with food safety requirements.
Tips for Safe ABS Printing
For safe 3D printing when working with ABS, it is advisable to work in a fume free environment or employ a fume extractor unit to remove the noxious gases and particles that are released during the printing process. This should reduce the risk of respiratory irritation and keep the environment healthy. Also, please pay attention to safety rules and use protective gear (like masks or gloves) when needed.
Conclusion, despite the fact that ABS filament is nontoxic in solid form, fumes generated during printing should be taken into consideration. By following the necessary precautions, such as using adequate ventilation and a fume extractor, it is possible to create a safe 3D printing environment. If you require food-safe prints, it’s best to opt for food-safe materials specifically designed for that purpose.