The smell you’re noticing could be due to the release of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) during the 3D printing process. Both FDM and resin 3D printers can generate VOCs that have distinctive odors.
For FDM printers, the smell can vary depending on the type of filament being used. For example, PLA often has a sweet smell, while ABS can produce a more unpleasant odor.
Resin printers, on the other hand, can produce a strong and often unpleasant smell due to the chemicals used in the resin. This smell is particularly noticeable during the printing and post-processing stages.
Some of the VOCs released during 3D printing include Alpha-pinene, Lactide, Limonene, and Propylene Glycol, which are common in foods, fragrances, and everyday goods. However, hazardous VOCs like Dioxane, Formaldehyde, and Styrene, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, can also be emitted.
It’s important to note that just because you can’t smell anything doesn’t mean there are no VOCs present. Some VOCs are odorless but can still be harmful. Therefore, it’s recommended to use proper ventilation or filtration systems when 3D printing, especially when printing indoors.
Amazing reference: https://4dfiltration.com/resources/3d/3d-printing-air-quality-roundup
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