Safety becomes the major concern as DTF printing enters new segments like home craft and educational institutions – safety concerning powder adhesives.

Most traditional DTF workflows depend on thermoplastic powder adhesive that must be cured with heat for the film to bond with the fabric. But in this process, VOCs can probably be released, especially when cheaper unregulated powders are used.

These emissions are health and legal concerns in sensitive environments such as schools, hospitals, or homes. Another typical issue pointed out by safety watchers is powder inhalation, especially in badly ventilated spaces.

To tackle this, companies are speeding up the making of powderless glue tech. These newer setups put glues inside the ink or film, removing the need for a separate powder layer. Powderless setups are not just safer, but also simpler to use – important for hobbyists or first-time users.

Regulatory agencies in Europe and the U.S. are also expected to tighten rules on emissions and chemical safety in printing environments. Companies hoping to serve institutional or government clients will need to ensure compliance with these evolving standards.