FDM emissions on human health: impacting factors and mitigation strategies

<p>The paper aims to identify, based on a literature review, the factors influencing emissions in the Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), also known as the Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) process.</p><p>We carried out a literature review using the PRISMA methodology. Then, we randomly selected 13 articles using a Python script that implements the Fisher-Yates shuffle algorithm to minimise bias.</p><p>The filament type affects both particulate matter and VOC emissions. Its physical form (pellets, pulverised,…) and chemical composition (colour pigments, dyes, flamant retarding additives, metal and mineral fillers,…) influence the types of compounds released, as well as the level of emissions. Besides, the extruder temperature affects the emission rate of PM and its concentration. The degree of impact varies depending on the filament type and its composition (additives, stabilisers, plasticisers, etc.).</p><ul><li>To determine the optimal printing settings (e.g., extruder temperature, nozzle diameter) that ensure low emission levels without any part quality compromise;</li><li>To identify the critical temperature threshold where emissions augment exponentially;</li><li>To investigate the influence of the extruder's temperature on the concentrations of VOCs.</li></ul><p>The findings highlight the importance of selecting low-emitting materials such as PLA and optimising the extruder temperature and nozzle diameter to mitigate the release of harmful compounds during FDM printing. Industrialists as well as home hobbyists can use this information to potentially enhance workplace safety. Also, a suggested multi-layered strategy, founded on the synergy between engineering measures (enclosing the FDM printer with integrated filtration and ventilation systems), prioritising low-emission materials, and a collection of administrative safeguards.</p><p>We proposed a multi-level emission mitigation strategy based on this parameter review and results from other studies.</p>