Antiviral properties of polylactic acid and nano-TiO2 for 3D printing

•TiO2/PLA composite’s strength resembles PLA, suitable for similar uses.•Layers adhere optimally despite TiO2 fillers.•Composite shows significant antiviral efficacy, targeting enveloped and non-enveloped viruses.•The study offers innovative solution for virus presence on plastic. Throughout history, viruses have consistently adapted to survive and spread. Understanding airborne transmission and surface survival emphasizes the necessity for antiviral materials. This study demonstrates virucidal reduction of human Coronavirus 229E and Feline Calicivirus on a polylactic acid and titanium dioxide nanoparticle composite with photocatalytic activity and UV activation. Mechanical properties and UV spectroscopy are also examined, suggesting the potential of the composite in medical and food applications through additive manufacturing.