Safe-by-design strategies applied to scaffold hybrid manufacturing

Abstract The EU-project FAST (GA 685825) has developed a 3D printer machine prototype for the manufacture of bone implants (scaffolds), by merging masterbatches biodegradable polymer poly(ethylene oxide)terephthalate/poly(butylene terephthalate) [PEOT/PBT] doped with nanofillers [reduced graphene oxide (rGO), hydroxyapatite (HA) and magnesium aluminium hydroxide ciprofloxacin hydrotalcite (LDH-CFX)], atmospheric plasma technology. This paper focus on safe design strategies identified to address risk health resulting from potential airborne emission nano-objects their aggregates agglomerates (NOAAs) prototype, which might result in occupational exposures inhalation. work also includes measurements emissions carried out during verification stage design. Nanofillers particles (rGO, n-HA, LDH-CFX) were not observed, neither at source nor working area, suggesting no release free air one they have been embedded masterbatch. Additionally, exposure workplace was far below selected Occupational Exposure Levels (OELs), total particle number concentration (PNC), dust, elemental carbon (EC) volatile organic compounds (VOCs). results showed that, when current normal operation (for its intended use) controls enabled [enclosure doors closed Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) activated], worker’s NOAAs are well controlled.