The following is an updated list of specifications, advantages, and disadvantages of PLA (Polylactic Acid) used in 3D Printing.
PLA is the most basic and commonly used material in 3D printing due to its low cost and ease of printing. The material is biodegradable and helps make prototypes that are non-moving parts or do not require durability or wear resistance. PLA material appears more flexible when fresh off the 3D printer but will gradually become more brittle after several days.
The finishing of PLA 3D printed items is generally matt, and depending on the printer, some may appear to have strings (lines).
| Tech Specs | PLA | <
| Chemical Name | Polylactic Acid |
| Advantages | Biodegradable Low cost Stiff No toxic fumes (Lactide) |
| Disadvantages | Low heat resistance. Stringing and oozing. Brittle when harden. Poor chemical resistant. |
| Appearance | Translucent, matte. |
| Chemical Resistance | Salt, oil, UV |
| Fumes Emission | Non-toxic lactide |
| Food Safe | Yes, if certified. |
| Water Absorption | 0.7~1.0% |
| Uses | Non-functional prototype Indoor used products |
| Strength | Medium |
| Density kg/m3 | 1240 |
| Melting Point | 150-160°C |
| Glass Transition | 60°C |
| Flexibility | Low |
| Durability | Medium |
| Ease of Printing | High |
| Typical Print Speed Range (machine dependent) | 30-90mm/s |
| Heated Bed | No |
| Extruder Temperature | 180-230 oC |
| Cooling Method | Cooling fan |
| Enclosure Required | No |
| Ventilation Required | No |
| Build Surface | PEI sheet. Glass plate. Glue Stick. Masking tape. |
