Health considerations

Before we begin the survey, let's look at some health issues when extruding with these filaments.

For your health, it's better to be aware of these dangers, and it's also better for the health of your printer. A cooler operating hot end will last longer. Make sure you are not extruding at a very high temperature. If you don't have the proper tools (such as a multimeter with a thermocouple) to take accurate readings, then be safe and don't exceed the maximum temperature specified for a material. When an ABS filament is burned, it will release carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide, which are hazardous to your health. When a PLA filament is burned, it will release carbon monoxide.

3D printers will release ultrafine particles (UFPs) into the air when they extrude plastic. There is no conclusive evidence that the volume of exposure is detrimental to your health, but proper ventilation is a good precaution.