Overview
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is the most widely used FDM printing material - and for good reason. It prints reliably across a wide range of temperatures, produces clean surface finishes, and is available in a huge variety of colours. Being plant-derived, it is biodegradable under industrial composting conditions.
Ideal for functional prototypes, concept models, display pieces, and educational applications where heat resistance is not a primary requirement.
Technical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 50MPa |
| Flexural Modulus | 3.7GPa |
| Heat Deflection Temp | 52–65°C |
| Layer Resolution | 0.1–0.3mm |
| Density | 1.24g/cm³ |
| Elongation at Break | 6% |
| Shrinkage | ~0.3% |
Advantages & Limitations
Advantages
- ✓Easiest material to print - excellent first-layer adhesion
- ✓Wide colour range, including transparent and metallic options
- ✓Biodegradable and plant-derived (renewable feedstock)
- ✓Excellent detail reproduction at fine layer heights
- ✓Low warp, no heated enclosure required
Limitations
- ✗Low heat resistance - not suitable for parts exposed to >50 °C
- ✗More brittle than PETG or ABS under impact loads
Applications
Concept modelsDisplay prototypesFigurinesEducational partsArchitecture modelsPackaging inserts
Printing Tips
PLA prints best between 190–220 °C with a bed temperature of 50–60 °C. Use a PEI or glass print surface for optimal adhesion. Avoid prolonged moisture exposure - store in a sealed bag with desiccant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PLA food-safe?
Standard FDM PLA is generally not certified food-safe due to micro-pores that can harbour bacteria. For food-contact applications we recommend PETG or requesting a food-safe coating.
How strong is PLA compared to ABS?
PLA has comparable tensile strength to ABS (~50 MPa) but is stiffer and more brittle. ABS is tougher under impact and more heat-resistant.