Omar Khalid
3D pens are a fun tool for drawing three-dimensional objects and executing quick fixes on everyday items. They work by melting and extruding plastic filament, which then hardens to form structures. One of the major appeals of 3D pens is the ability to draw and sculpt with plastic in mid-air. However, this also raises questions about the safety of 3D pen plastics. While most 3D pen plastic filaments are derived from non-toxic thermoplastics, heating certain plastics to high temperatures can generate irritating or potentially toxic fumes. Additionally, the strength of 3D pen plastic varies depending on the type of plastic used. For example, PLA (polylactic acid) plastic is biodegradable and suitable for food containers, but it is also brittle and less strong than other plastics. On the other hand, nylon or PA (polyamide) is much stronger and more durable, but it requires a higher printing temperature than most pens can handle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic type | PCL, PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, Nylon, PVC, Polycarbonate |
| Melting point | PCL, PETG, and ABS have low melting points |
| Toxicity | PCL, PLA, PETG, and ABS are non-toxic |
| Toxic fumes | ABS, nylon, and PVC produce ultrafine particles when melted |
| Biodegradability | PCL and PLA are biodegradable |
| Flexibility | TPU is very flexible |
| Strength | Nylon is the strongest, followed by Polycarbonate |
| Child-friendliness | 3Doodler Start+ and Flow are safe for kids under 12 |
| Clogging | 3Doodler pens are less likely to clog |
| Price | Prices range from £15.49 to £36.99 |
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What You'll Learn
The strength of different plastics
The strength of plastics varies depending on their composition and manufacturing process. Some plastics are known for their high impact resistance and durability, while others are more flexible or have excellent chemical resistance. Here is a detailed overview of the strength of different plastics:
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
ABS is a commonly used plastic known for its high impact resistance and durability. It is used in a variety of applications, including automotive, printing, and display industries. ABS has a low melting point of around 60°C and produces unpleasant fumes when melted, which can be toxic. However, it has been used safely in Lego bricks and household items.
Polylactic Acid (PLA)
PLA is a plant-based, biodegradable plastic made from corn starch. It emits low fumes when heated and is suitable for food containers, confirming its non-toxic properties. PLA has decent strength, as seen in an experiment where two objects welded with PLA could be picked up and handled without breaking.
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or PETG)
PET is a synthetic plastic with excellent chemical resistance to organic materials and water. It is easily recyclable and practically shatterproof, making it ideal for containers for food, liquids, and engineering resins. PETG, derived from PET, is FDA-approved for food contact and has excellent chemical resistance.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
PVC is the third-most produced synthetic plastic polymer and can be manufactured to have rigid or flexible properties. It is well-known for its ability to blend with other materials. Rigid PVC is commonly used in construction materials, doors, windows, bottles, and non-food packaging.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is a type of plastic with high heat resistance and impact strength. It is ideal for applications requiring a mirrored surface, such as in the security and automotive industries.
Polycaprolactone (PCL)
PCL is a biodegradable polyester plastic derived from plant oils. It has a low melting point of 60°C and stays malleable after solidifying, making it easy to reshape. PCL is safe for use in 3D pens and does not produce toxic fumes.
While the above plastics vary in strength and applications, it is important to note that their mechanical properties, such as stiffness, hardness, and toughness, can be tested and compared using standardized methods. Additionally, the impact strength of thermoplastics can be measured using Charpy or Izod impact tests.
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Safety and toxicity
The safety and toxicity of 3D pen plastic depend on the type of plastic used, the usage, and the disposal method. The most common types of plastic used in 3D pens include PCL, PLA, PETG, and ABS, which are generally considered safe for consumer use. However, there are still potential hazards and health risks associated with the use of these plastics, especially during the melting and extrusion process.
One of the major concerns is the emission of fumes during the heating and melting of the plastic filament. While PLA, for example, emits low fumes when heated, other types of plastic such as ABS can produce unpleasant or mildly toxic fumes. These fumes can be hazardous, especially for individuals with respiratory issues. Therefore, it is crucial to work in a well-ventilated area when using 3D pens to minimise the risk of inhaling toxic emissions.
Another important consideration is the potential for ingestion of the plastic, which could be hazardous. It is important to closely supervise children using 3D pens to ensure they do not put the melted plastic near their mouths or touch it before it has fully hardened. Proper adult guidance is crucial to prevent accidental ingestion and to ensure the safety of young users.
Additionally, the disposal of plastic waste from 3D pens should be done responsibly to avoid environmental contamination. It is recommended to never burn plastic scraps as this can release toxic emissions. Instead, recycling spare filament spools and failed prints is a more environmentally friendly option. PLA plastic, in particular, is compostable when sent to an industrial composting facility.
Furthermore, the use of 3D pen printers with filaments embedded with redox-active metals as additives should be approached with caution. Studies have shown that the emissions from these filaments can cause mild toxic responses in in vitro inhalation exposure assays, and the potential impact on human health in real-world exposure scenarios depends on various factors such as ventilation, printing space, and atmospheric conditions.
Overall, while the majority of 3D pen plastics are considered non-toxic and safe for consumer use, it is important to follow safety guidelines, ensure proper ventilation, keep plastic away from mouths, and dispose of waste responsibly to minimise potential health and environmental risks associated with their use.
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$3.98
Disposal and recycling
The disposal and recycling of 3D pen plastic depend on the type of plastic filament used. Some common plastic filaments used in 3D pens and their disposal/recycling methods are outlined below:
Start+ Eco-Plastic Filament
The 3Doodler Start+ Eco-Plastic filament is eco-friendly, non-toxic, and recyclable. It can be recycled through traditional recycling streams or even composted in your backyard or household compost bin. This filament is safe for the environment and does not produce any fumes.
Create+ Plastic Filament (ABS and PLA)
The ABS and PLA filaments used in the 3Doodler Create+ pen are recyclable. They are classified as number 7 recyclables, which may require special recycling facilities. Additionally, PLA is considered eco-friendly and can be composted in industrial composters. When using ABS or PLA, it is recommended to work in a ventilated area due to the slight "plasticky" smell that some users notice.
PRO+ Plastic Filament (Nylon and Metal)
The PRO+ plastic filament, which includes nylon and metal options, is recyclable as number 7 recyclables. Similar to the Create+ filament, these may require special recycling facilities. Wood filament, which is also compatible with the PRO+ pen, is eco-friendly and can be composted in industrial composters.
It is important to note that you should never reinsert extruded filament back into the 3D pen, regardless of the type of plastic. Additionally, 3Doodler recommends using only approved plastic filaments to avoid damage to the pen and to ensure the safety of users through their toxicological risk assessments.
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Melting points
The melting point of 3D pen plastic depends on the type of plastic used. Polylactic Acid (PLA), one of the most popular materials for 3D printing, has a melting point range of 180-190°C. However, this range can be influenced by various additives incorporated into PLA to enhance its properties. For example, plasticizers make PLA more flexible but lower its melting point, while colorants can slightly alter the melting point depending on their chemical composition. Fillers and reinforcements like wood, carbon fibre, or metal particles added to PLA can also change its thermal properties, including the melting point. PLA's glass transition temperature is around 60 to 65°C, lower than the boiling point of water (100°C). While it won't melt in boiling water, it will soften and lose its rigidity.
Another commonly used plastic for 3D pens is Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), which has a higher melting point range of 200-220°C. ABS produces some unpleasant fumes when melted and is not considered environmentally friendly. To smooth over imperfections on ABS prints, acetone can be used as a "glue" that melts the plastic together momentarily, forming strong bonds at a molecular level.
Other types of plastic used in 3D pens include PCL (polycaprolactone), which has a low melting point of 60°C, and PETG (derived from polyethylene terephthalate), which is FDA-approved for food contact and has excellent chemical resistance. TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) is also used for its flexibility and elasticity but does not have a specific melting point mentioned.
It is important to note that while the raw 3D pen plastic filament may be safe, heating certain plastics to high temperatures can generate irritating or potentially toxic fumes. Proper ventilation and safety precautions are crucial when using 3D pens, especially for children, to avoid burns and exposure to harmful fumes or chemicals.
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Applications and use cases
3D pens are handheld devices that allow users to create three-dimensional objects by heating and extruding plastic that cools and solidifies almost instantly. They are an intuitive and direct way to create 3D models and are a step up from hot glue guns, with the added benefit of being able to manipulate the material in three dimensions. 3D pens are also much more affordable than 3D printers, making them an accessible entry point for those interested in 3D modelling.
Art and Craft
Artists and hobbyists use 3D pens to create sculptures, jewellery, and decorative items. The ability to draw in three dimensions allows for unique and intricate designs that are not possible with traditional art supplies. 3D pens offer a level of precision that can be challenging to achieve with traditional 3D printers, making them a versatile tool for artists and crafters.
Prototyping and Model-Making
Inventors and engineers use 3D pens for quick prototyping and model-making. This is especially useful in the early stages of design when changes are frequent and rapid iterations are needed. The speed and ease of use of 3D pens make them ideal for quickly testing ideas and creating prototypes.
Education
3D pens are increasingly being used in educational settings to teach students about geometry, physics, and design. They provide a hands-on approach to learning and allow students to see their creations take shape in real time. 3D pens can help students understand abstract concepts and apply their knowledge in a practical way.
Repair and Embellishment
3D pens can be used to repair broken plastic items or fill gaps in 3D printed models, making them a handy tool for DIY enthusiasts and professionals. The ability to fuse and manipulate plastic allows users to make seamless repairs and embellishments, giving new life to old items.
Science and Technology
3D pens have been used in scientific applications such as fabricating electrochemical sensors. The versatility and precision of 3D pens make them useful in various fields where custom tools or prototypes are required.
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Frequently asked questions
The strength of 3D pen plastic depends on the type of plastic used. Polylactic acid (PLA) is a popular choice due to its slow melting and soft texture, but it is also brittle and less strong than other plastics. On the other hand, nylon or polyamide (PA) is much stronger and more durable, but it requires a higher printing temperature that many pens cannot achieve. Polycarbonate is also an incredibly strong option that is shatter-resistant and gives a glass-like appearance.
The strength of the plastic can be influenced by the design and printing process. For example, when joining two pieces together, the speed at which the plastic is extruded and the amount of heat applied can affect the strength of the bond. Additionally, the type of plastic and its properties, such as deformability, will determine how well it can bear weight and maintain its shape.
While most 3D pen plastic filaments are derived from non-toxic thermoplastics, heating certain plastics to high temperatures can generate irritating or potentially toxic fumes. Proper ventilation is crucial when using 3D pens to avoid inhaling these fumes. It is also important to supervise young children and ensure they do not put melted plastic near their mouths or touch it before it fully hardens.
