What is the relationship between build chamber humidity and material degradation?

Increased build chamber humidity accelerates the degradation of hygroscopic 3D printing materials. Hygroscopic materials, such as Nylon, TPU, and some PLA formulations, readily absorb moisture from the surrounding environment. When humidity levels within the build chamber are high, these materials absorb more moisture, leading to several detrimental effects. Absorbed moisture plasticizes the material, reducing its strength and stiffness. It can also cause dimensional changes, making it difficult to achieve accurate prints. During printing, the absorbed moisture can vaporize rapidly when heated in the hot end, leading to bubbling, voids, and inconsistent extrusion. Therefore, controlling and minimizing build chamber humidity is crucial for maintaining the material's integrity and ensuring reliable print quality. Implementing dehumidification systems or using materials with lower hygroscopic properties is important for optimizing the printing process.