Análise da qualidade do ar durante a impressão 3D e grau de conversão de resinas fotoativadas sob diferentes estratégias de pós-cura

Abstract

The growing use of 3D printing in digital dentistry demands careful evaluation of the environmental impacts and occupational safety associated with the use of UV-light photoactivated resin-based materials, an aspect still underexplored in the literature. This study aimed to analyze indoor air quality during the printing of dental models using different types of 3D printing resins: S – standard, PB– plant-based, and WW– water- washable (Anycubic), by measuring the mixing ratio of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) mass concentration, in addition to evaluating the degree of conversion (DC) of these materials under distinct post-curing strategies: WP– without post-polymerization, SPC– standard post-curing in a UV light chamber for 30 minutes, and PCS– standard post-curing followed by 1-hour of solar exposure. VOCs and PM2.5 were continuously monitored during printing using a specific monitor, and the DC was assessed using an FTIR-ATR unit. The results showed that PB and WW resins exhibited the highest VOC mixing ratio levels and PM2.5 mass concentrations, with maximum values reaching 30.9 ppm and 0.016 mg/m³. No statistical difference was observed between PB and ST resins. The ST resin showed the best performance in both emissions and degree of conversion (57.6%), while PB resin presented intermediate conversion values (50.5%), and WW showed the lowest DC values (46.2%). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences among the resins and post-curing methods tested (p<0.001), indicating that both composition and post-processing influence polymerization efficiency and pollutant emissions. The findings of this study provide scientific evidence supporting the responsible and sustainable use of resins for 3D printing, aligning with the principles of evidence-based dentistry and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 3, 9, and 12).