The additive manufacturing industry continues to transform how we design, prototype, and produce everything from industrial parts to consumer products. At the center of this movement is PLA material—one of the most widely used materials in desktop and professional 3D printing. If you're wondering what is PLA in 3D printing, it stands for polylactic acid, a biobased thermoplastic made from renewable resources. NatureWorks PLA marketed under the Ingeo™ brand, is widely recognized as one of the leading PLA filament brands on the market today.
When compared to other 3D printer filament options like ABS, PETG, and nylon, PLA material provides strong benefits for a wide range of applications, including consumer goods, automotive components, healthcare parts, and large-format prototypes.
Printability: Ease and Accessibility
One of the main reasons NatureWorks PLA is considered one of the best PLA filament options available is its printability. Ingeo™ PLA is engineered for ease of extrusion, excellent bed adhesion, and minimal warping which make it ideal for beginners, hobbyists, and professionals. NatureWorks offers a wide range of Ingeo™ grades designed for various 3D printing needs such as large-format prints, breakaway supports, general-purpose use, including high-heat and impact-resistant parts.
When compared to filament materials such as ABS or nylon that require high printing temperatures (230–260°C) and heated build chambers, Ingeo™ PLA prints at a lower temperature range (190–230°C), has a much lower emission profile, and doesn’t need a heated enclosure. User friendly NatureWorks PLA serves as the ideal 3D printer filament for users at all levels while not compromising on quality.
Mechanical Properties: Balancing Strength & Ductility
While PLA material is naturally stiff and has a high modulus, standard PLA can sometimes be brittle when printed. As a solution, NatureWorks offers advanced grades like Ingeo™ 3D870, which offer improved impact resistance and ductility, making it suitable for functional parts, industrial components, and demanding applications.
Interlayer adhesion is another area where PLA filament excels. Ingeo™ PLA promotes superior layer bonding compared to ABS or PETG, reducing the risk of delamination and improving overall mechanical properties. It also can be modified with reinforcements like fibers or additives to meet specific end-use requirements.
A Sustainable Solution
A common question people are wondering is: Is PLA biodegradable? The answer is yes! PLA filament is industrially compostable and made from renewable resources such as field corn or sugarcane. NatureWorks PLA reduces the reliance on fossil fuels and has a carbon footprint up to 86% lower than traditional petrochemical-based plastics like ABS, PETG, and nylon.
With sustainability becoming a key consideration in material selection, PLA offers an appealing option for eco-conscious makers and manufacturers. You can now choose a 3D printer filament that delivers high performance while aligning with environmental goals.
The Clear Choice for the Best PLA Filament
So, what is PLA in 3D printing really about? It’s about balancing quality, ease of use, and sustainability. As one of the best PLA filament brands, NatureWorks leads the way with its high-performance, bio-based Ingeo™ line. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or a seasoned professional developing quality components, NatureWorks PLA delivers unmatched versatility and consistent print quality.
As additive manufacturing continues to expand across industries, choosing the best PLA filament is more important than ever. NatureWorks Ingeo™ PLA provides reliability, printability, and eco-friendly performance that modern makers and manufacturers demand.
Ready to Make a Sustainable Shift?
Become part of the growing community of innovators who are selecting NatureWorks PLA for their 3D printing projects. For more information or to discuss how Ingeo™ PLA can support your 3D printing projects, contact Channel Prime Alliance today!
