Particle emissions and respiratory exposure to hazardous chemical substances associated with binder jetting additive manufacturing utilizing poly methyl methacrylate

Abstract

Background: During industrial scale binder jetting utilising poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) hazardous chemical substances (HCSs) such as PMMA powder particles, methyl methacrylate (MMA) and acetone may be emitted and potentially inhaled by Additive Manufacturing (AM) operators. Methods: Physical and chemical characterisation of virgin and used PMMA powder samples were characterised in terms of their size, shape and chemical composition. Direct reading particle counting instruments were used to determine particle emissions and emission rates (ER). Internationally recognised methods were used to monitor HCSs in the ambient workplace environment and personal respiratory exposure of the AM operators. Results: There were no differences between the median powder size distributions of virgin and used PMMA powders. Scanning Electron Microscopy images indicated the presence of 50% of the South African OEL). Recommendations were made to reduce exposure to inhalable particles, which could be applied to other AM facilities.

Keywords

• 3D printing
• Binder jetting
• Occupational exposure
• Particle emission rates
• Particle size distribution