PLA (polylactic acid) is the most commonly used FDM 3D printing material. It is formed by the fermentation polymerization of renewable plant resources such as corn starch, sugar cane, and cassava. It is a biobased and degradable thermoplastic. Under industrial composting conditions, it can decompose into carbon dioxide and water, but in an ordinary environment, its degradation is slow and it still needs to be treated according to plastic standards.
Printing Features
The PLA printing temperature is low (the nozzle temperature ranges from 190 to 220℃), and there is no need to close the machine case. When the hot bed temperature is 50 to 60℃, the adhesion effect is better (even at room temperature, the platform can also be used). The shrinkage rate is small, and it is not prone to warping or cracking. It is almost compatible with all FDM printers and is the preferred material for beginners and teaching purposes. During printing, it emits a slight sweet smell, which is not irritating, and is suitable for home, classroom and laboratory environments.
2. Performance and Applications
The forming accuracy is good, the surface is smooth and has a lustrous appearance, and it has a strong ability to reproduce details. The color varieties are rich, covering transparent, luminous, temperature-changing, light-changing, metallic colors and other special effects. It is mainly used for appearance models, concept prototypes, teaching displays, cultural and creative designs, and light-load daily necessities (mobile phone stands, pen holders, hooks, etc.).
3. Disadvantages and Limitations
Low toughness. High brittleness. Not resistant to bending or impact. Not suitable for force-bearing structures such as clasps and hinges.
Low heat resistance. The glass transition temperature is approximately 55 to 65℃. In summer, in situations such as inside the vehicle or in hot water environments, it is prone to softening and deformation.
The weather resistance and chemical resistance are average. It tends to age and fade under long-term sunlight exposure. Its strength decreases in a humid environment. It is not resistant to some organic solvents and alkaline solutions.
4. Modified materials
Summary. PLA is an entry-level material that is easy to print, safe, and has a good appearance. It is suitable for teaching, makers, and product appearance verification, but is not suitable for high-temperature, heavy-load, or long-term stress scenarios.
