1. Ivory, Rhinoceros Horn Replicas
And all the endangered species products like these, you can’t 3D print.
Why?
Because even high-fidelity replicas may facilitate illegal wildlife trade even with alternative materials
2. Money
And all the likes, like securities (counterfeit bills, stamps, financial instruments).
Why?
Because if you 3D print these, you will violate anti-counterfeiting laws with potential felony charges including severe prison sentences.
3. Guns
There are so many people search “3D print guns” related keywords.
But they should know that unauthorized production is prohibited.
Not only guns, but all the likes, like firearms, ammunition, explosive devices are all prohibited.
If you 3D print these, without authorization, your unauthorized manufacturing will violate firearms acts. And you should know that using them in criminal activities is the last thing you want to do, because doing so carries enhanced penalties.
4. Drug Related
Like drug packaging and narcotics production equipment, you should never 3D print.
Because even if you just 3D print the packaging and production equipment, you may result in charges as accessories to trafficking.
5. Modified drone components
If it’s used for illegal stuff like smuggling contraband or spying, there’ll be stiffer penalties.
6. Facial masks or fingerprint replicas of individuals
Pretending to be someone else messes with privacy rights and could be considered criminal fraud.
7. Unapproved Dental Implants
And all the things like that, such as orthopedic screws.
Why?
They need regulatory approval from the FDA, CE, or NMPA, no matter if the materials meet the standards.
8. Bridge load-bearing segments
Why?
Because of the volume limitations of 3D printing, 3D printers can only print things within a certain volume.
9. MEMS sensors
Why?
The resolution of 3D printing, which is usually at least 50μm, just can’t meet the sub – micron precision needs.
10. Human Gene-editing Tools
Why?
Because it’s prohibited by International Bioethics Conventions.
11. Fully functional human organs (esim., kidneys, livers)
You can’t bioprint vascular networks and neural integration at the same time. And the cell viability and functionality are still in the research and development phase.
12. Diamond
Why you can’t print diamond?
Because of the technical limitations.
In other words, you need to pyrolyze polymer – printed forms to get them. But the anisotropic shrinkage that happens during carbonization messes up the dimensional accuracy.
Bonus Tip: Batons, Handcuffs and Body armor
Batons, handcuffs, and body armors are all restricted gear. If you make them without permission, that’s a violation of the controlled goods rules.