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Making a 3D printed formicarium?

Started By Manitobant , May 8 2019 10:38 AM

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4 replies to this topic

#1 Offline Manitobant - Posted May 8 2019 - 10:38 AM

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2,912 posts

LocationWinnipeg, Canada

I have a final project for one of my high school classes and I thought it would be a good Idea to use a 3D printer to make a formicarium. Is the material safe for ants and will a 3D printed formicarium actually work? Thanks!

My journals:

Polyergus Mexicanus: https://www.formicul...gs/#entry175528
Lasius minutus: https://www.formicul...cs/#entry174811
Lasius latipes: https://www.formicul...gs/#entry206449
General acanthomyops journal: https://www.formicul...yops-with-eggs/

#2 Offline Acutus - Posted May 8 2019 - 10:48 AM

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835 posts

LocationMaryland

From what I have read and looked into. PLA and PTEG are fine and considered food grade.

Billy

Currently keeping:

Camponotus chromaiodes

Camponotus castaneus

Formica subsericea

#3 Offline yfaykya - Posted May 8 2019 - 1:20 PM

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49 posts

Lots of 3d printed nests for sale and to download from thingiverse. I have a few myself. Also https://www.formica-antfarm.com/ only do 3d printed nests.

Acutus likes this

#4 Offline MrUrrutia - Posted June 2 2019 - 2:03 PM

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I was wondering if a design can be printed on PLA and then lightly glassing it with epoxy in order to waterproof the design as to help with the possibility of mold growth because of moisture...

Edited by MrUrrutia, June 2 2019 - 2:03 PM.

"Where must we go, we who wander this wasteland, in search of our better selves?"

-The First History Man

#5 Offline Acutus - Posted June 2 2019 - 5:40 PM

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835 posts

LocationMaryland

Not really understanding what you're saying, but PLA is fine. There has to be some type of humidity gradient. So moisture will always be present. In fact most designs have either a mesh floor area or micro holes printed in to allow humidity form the side or bottom.

Billy

Currently keeping:

Camponotus chromaiodes

Camponotus castaneus

Formica subsericea

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