PLA vs. ABS Comparison: The Protocol
It is possible to find large differences in composition between the same families of thermoplastics from different manufacturers. This base is often similar but there is a significant amount of potential additives that each manufacturer can add to give specific properties: color, texture, mechanical or thermal resistance etc.
The printer was put in an Alveo3D 60x60x60cm enclosure without activating the air filtration system.
Particle measurement is performed using a condensation particle counter (CPC). The device accurately measures the range of particles from 20 to 100nm. Between each test, the room is ventilated and a reading of the particle concentration in the ambient air is taken.
Comparison PLA vs. ABS: Results
ABS produces more nanoparticles than PLA,
PLA is not harmless.
In practice, before each test in ambient air, we measured 4000 nanoparticles/cm3 of air.
- During PLA printing, we measured a maximum concentration of 66000 nanoparticles/cm3 with an average of around 15000 nanoparticles/cm3.
- During ABS printing, the maximum concentration reached was 260000 nanoparticles/cm3 with an average of 150000 nanoparticles/cm3.
The highest concentrations are measured at the beginning of the print, regardless of the filament used. In the first 5 minutes, the concentration strongly increases, stabilizes itself at an average value then slowly declines at the end of the print.
3D Printing: Precautions to Take
During the most critical phase of ABS printing, we recorded concentrations more than 60 times higher than atmospheric levels. To avoid exposure to such high levels of nanoparticle concentrations in the air, we recommend:
- Positioning the 3D printer in a spacious and well-ventilated room.
- Enclosing the printer with a casing equipped with a filtration or air extraction system.
- Ventilating the area for at least 5 minutes before opening the casing to access the printer.
- Using an efficient particle filtration system for FDM printer emissions (10 – 100 nm).
Article written by:

Lucas
CEO at Alveo3D
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