Hackaday · Creativity & design

3D-Printed Filter Removes Most Microplastics From Water

A new 3D-printed filtration system shows promise in removing micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) from water, addressing a growing environmental concern.

Researchers developed a low-cost, 3D-printed filtration mesh capable of removing up to 90% of MNPs. The prototype utilizes a multi-layer system printed with PLA and a sacrificial additive, polyethylene glycol (PEG).

The PEG spheres within the PLA structure are etched away using hot water, creating a porous surface that traps fine particles. This method overcomes the limitations of standard 3D printing in creating the fine pores needed for MNP filtration.

The PLA-PEG10 sample demonstrated the most effective porous structure while maintaining the PLA material's integrity. A filtration efficiency of 90% was achieved using 20 layers of these filters.

Further investigation is needed to improve the system and assess its potential reusability.

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