HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HEALTH DURING 3D SCANNING?

When 3D scanning glossy or translucent parts, matting agents often come into play to allow the scanner to capture the geometry of the part being scanned. Sprays or airbrushes are usually used for their application. From the point of view of the technicians who use these matting agents in 3D scanning, it is important that the composition should have the least impact on the environment and human health. How do sprays based on cyclododecane (CDC), which has been discussed as a hazardous substance in the past, stand up in this respect?

A common misconception about cyclododecane is that it has harmful effects and causes cancer. However, studies show that CDC (cyclododecane) is a safe substance and has no proven harmful effects. Developments in the view of cyclododecane have been described in an article on the reputable website www.ingenieur.de. In 2008, CDC was to be included in the European SVHC (List of Substances of Very High Concern). However, due to errors and incorrect conclusions in the dossier, it was not included in the end. One example: In 2008, France wanted to include cyclododecane on the list of substances subject to authorisation - the first step towards its inclusion on the SVHC list. The French authorities argued that this substance, which is used in the production of polyamides, is toxic and persistent and accumulates in nature. The approval procedure is designed for such PBT (persistent, bioaccumulative, toxic) substances. However, the Treasury file contained errors and erroneous conclusions," Soballa recalled, continuing, "The mobility of this substance in soil was overestimated tenfold. Moreover, the authorities relied on computer simulations, even though studies show that cyclododecane is not toxic to either algae or fish. The substance was withdrawn after Evonik Degussa issued a warning." Cyclododecane is therefore not listed as an SVHC.

At 3Dees Industries, we are very positive about the fact that the deceptive sprays developed on the basis of cyclododecane are gentle on the health of 3D scanning technicians and therefore use these sprays ourselves.

Important information resources on the issue of CDC and its impact on health and the environment:

• read the full article on the history of CDC preview at www.ingenieur.de,
• check the classification of CDC on the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
• the dangers of cyclododecane are also described in the University of Cambridge Museums article "How dangerous CDC really is".