PLA Material Learning Center

PLA Material

PLA is the abbreviation for Poly Lactic Acid or Polylactide, which is derived mainly from starch or carbohydrate through corn, beet, wheat, or yam by undergoing a series of process such as fermenting, dehydrating, and the eventual polymerizing. PLA is nontoxic, and is contamination-free throughout the entire production procedures. And since the ingredients are biodegradable, the practice of which genuinely realizes the ideal of cycles of nature, PLA is truly an environmentally-friendly high-molecular substance.

The specific PLA resins we are currently using in filaments production is 4032D, which is manufactured by NatureWorks LLC, as it is one of the most recognized standard PLA grade amongst users in the home-use 3D printers community. 4032D is considered a better option for beginners as well, since lots of feedback based on filaments deriving from the specified grade are the richest on many forums in such community.

PLA Physical Properties

Due to PLA's excellent mechanical and physical properties it is suitable for different processing technique and a wide array of applications, including injection molding, blow molding, transparent film, adhesive film, food wrapping film, laminate film and all kinds of plastic products dedicated to industrial and household use.

Properties Test Method Unit Test Value
Density D1505 g/cc 1.24
Tensile Strength D882 KPsi 15 21
Tensile Modulus D882 KPsi 500 550
Elongation at Break D882 % 180 100
Elmendorf Tear D1922 g/mil 17 14
Melting Point D3418 ℃ 155~170
Glass Transition Temperature - ℃ 55~60

 

(All properties measured on 1.0 mil film.)