What is PLA material ?

Polylactic acid, also known as PLA, is a thermoplastic monomer made from organic sources such as corn starch or sugar cane. Using biodegradable resources makes PLA production different from most plastics, with great properties and eco-friendly speciality.

As 3^rd generation of plastic material, PLA can be produced using the same equipment as petrochemical plastics, making PLA manufacturing processes relatively cost efficient. PLA is the second most produced bioplastic (after thermoplastic starch) and has similar characteristics to polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), or polystyrene (PS), as well as being biodegradeable.

How is it Made?

PLA is a type of polyester made from fermented plant starch from corn, cassava, maize, sugarcane or sugar beet pulp. The sugar in these renewable materials are fermented and turned into lactic acid, when is then made into polylactic acid, or PLA.

What is it Used For?

The material properties of PLA makes it suitable for the manufacture of plastic film, bottles and biodegradable medical devices, including screws, pins, plates and rods that are designed to biodegrade within 6 to 12 months).

PLA can be used as a shrink-wrap material since it constricts under heat. This ease of melting also makes polylactic acid suitable for 3D printing applications.

Is it Environmentally Friendly?

PLA production uses 65% less energy than producing conventional plastics and generates 68% fewer greenhouse gases and contains no toxins. It can be also remain environmentally friendly should the correct end-of-life scenario be followed.