What is PLA in 3D printing?
PLA (polylactide) is one of the most widely used materials in 3D printing, especially for FDM/FFF printers. It is a bioplastic made from renewable sources such as corn starch or sugar cane, making it more environmentally friendly than many other plastic materials.
Properties of PLA
- Easy to print - Requires relatively low temperature (180-220 °C) and has minimal warping.
- Good level of detail - Provides smooth surfaces and sharp details.
- More environmentally friendly than other plastics - Biodegradable under industrial composting conditions.
- Low heat resistance - Should not be used for objects exposed to high temperatures (starts to soften at about 60 °C).
- Less resistant to impact - Brittle compared to materials like ABS or PETG.
Areas of use
- Prototypes and models - Ideal for design prototypes and decorative items.
- Education and hobby projects - Easy to handle for beginners.
- Biomedical applications - Sometimes used for biodegradable implants and medical devices.
PLA compared to other materials
| material | Benefits and advantages | Disadvantages |
| PLA | Easy to print, more environmentally friendly, good surface finish | Brittle, low heat resistance |
| ABS | Impact resistant, heat resistant, finishing with acetone | More difficult to print, smells when printing |
| PETG | Stronger than PLA, better heat and chemical resistance | Slightly more difficult to print than PLA |
Executive summary
PLA is an excellent choice for users looking for a lightweight, more environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing material for 3D printing. However, it is less durable and heat resistant than some other options. Need guidance on material selection for your project? Our online calculator can help you compare options!