Doctoral theses of the School of Engineering are available in the open access repository maintained by Aalto, Aaltodoc.
Public defence, Mechanical Engineering, M.Sc. Kirsi Kukko
Occupational safety and health in additive manufacturing: A multi-method investigation. Public defence from the Aalto University School of Engineering, Energy and Mechanical Engineering Department.
In this event, we are committed to Aalto University’s principles for a safer space.
Title of the thesis: Occupational safety and health in additive manufacturing: A multi-method investigation
Thesis defender: Kirsi Kukko
Opponent: Prof. Igor Drstvensek, University of Maribor, Slovenia
Opponent: Adj. Prof. Aleksandr Stefaniak, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, USA
Custos: Prof. Jouni Partanen, Aalto University School of Engineering
3D printing, or additive manufacturing (AM), has rapidly spread from industry into offices, schools, and homes. The user base has expanded significantly, but occupational safety and health (OSH) research in the field has been fragmented and no comprehensive overview of the risks has been available.
This doctoral thesis at Aalto University approaches the topic through a multi-method investigation, combining an international survey, laboratory and field measurements, and indoor aerosol modelling. The research shows that AM can pose health risks across all stages of the workflow, not only during printing. Devices can emit nanoparticles and volatile organic compounds. Exposures vary depending on the material, environment, and AM process used. The study evaluated traditional control measures such as enclosures, but also demonstrated that AM itself can be part of the solution. AM-fabricated tools were developed and tested to support field measurements.
The research also revealed significant knowledge gaps in users' safety awareness. As important as generating new knowledge is ensuring that it reaches all users: from industrial professionals to hobbyists printing at home. Given the rapid pace of development in the field, the thesis calls for continued research and the development of standardised safety practices to support the sustainable growth of AM.
Key words: Additive manufacturing, 3D printing, occupational safety and health, exposure, emission, particles, gaseous compounds
Thesis available for public display 7 days prior to the defence at .
Contact information: kirsi.kukko@aalto.fi
Doctoral theses of the School of Engineering
Zoom Quick Guide