The additive manufacturing industry has revolutionized manufacturing, prototyping, and hobbyist endeavors. Among the myriad of materials available for 3D printing, PLA (polylactic acid) stands out for its unique properties, benefits, and superior quality. NatureWorks has an extensive history in producing high-quality PLA with specific attention to additive manufacturing requirements. When comparing PLA to other common materials like ABS, PETG, and nylon, NatureWorks’ Ingeo™ PLA shines due to its many value attributes to applications across multiple industries, from consumer goods to large format, automotive, and healthcare.
Printability: Ease and Accessibility
One of the most appealing aspects of Ingeo™ PLA, is its ease of use in 3D printing. Printability encompasses factors such as ease of extrusion, bed adhesion, and minimal warping. A range of specialized Ingeo™ grades are available including large format, heat and impact resistance grades, breakaway support, and a general purpose grade ensure the versatility and performance of prints.
Printing conditions are critical to yielding the most efficient process and highest quality parts. ABS, PETg and nylon all require higher printing temperatures, careful temperature-management in the print-chamber, and various processing parameters which can be daunting for beginners and hobbyists using standard 3D printers, or it can require additional, more expensive equipment to enable quality prints.
For example, a styrenic based material like ABS requires a heated build chamber and prints at 230-250°C. This can emit a strong unpleasant odor and higher nanoparticulate count. Printed ABS parts are also subject to warping, and this tendency is exacerbated with larger-format prints. In comparison, Ingeo™ PLA can be printed at lower temperatures (around 190-230°C), it generates very low emissions, and has low shrinkage/warpage with good print-bed adhesion, without the need for a heated build chamber. These printing benefits translate to 3D parts that display high resolution for design accuracy and aesthetics. Ingeo™ PLA is the market standard for users at all levels, from beginners to advanced makers.
Mechanical Properties: Balancing Strength & Ductility
While PLA is a stiff, high modulus polymer, it can become slightly brittle in a print. Ingeo™ PLA grades like 3D870, have been specially engineered to offer a balanced combination of strength and ductility, suitable for a wide range of industrial-level applications.
Interlayer adhesion is a key component that influences final part properties. Materials such as ABS, PETg, and nylon, require careful management of the print process to ensure adequate interlayer adhesion. In comparison, Ingeo™ PLA has intrinsically superior interlayer adhesion that minimizes layer delamination and poor mechanical properties. It can also be easily formulated with impact modifiers, fillers, fiber reinforcement, etc., to tailor properties to the end use application.
ABS is valued for its toughness and impact resistance, making it suitable for certain functional parts and prototypes. However, its tendency to warp and delaminate is a limiting attribute. While nylon excels in mechanical strength and flexibility, making it ideal for parts that require both durability and elasticity, its printing challenges and significant moisture sensitivity can limit its practical use.
A Sustainable Solution
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, the environmental and carbon impact of materials is a crucial consideration. Ingeo™ PLA is derived from renewable, sustainably grown feedstocks like dextrose or sucrose of cassava, field corn, sugar cane, or sugar beets making it a biobased material that has a carbon footprint 86% lower than petrochemical-based plastics like ABS, PETG, and nylon.
Printers have the opportunity now to choose a more sustainable material without sacrificing performance and printability.
The Clear Choice for Sustainable and Accessible 3D Printing
When comparing PLA to other common 3D printing materials like ABS, PETg, and nylon, Ingeo™ PLA stands out for its unique combination of sustainability, printability, and mechanical strength. Its biobased nature aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability, while its ease of use and accessibility make it an ideal choice for a wide range of users. While other materials are available, Ingeo™ PLA provides a balanced, versatile option that supports both innovative 3D printing projects and a healthier planet.
Join the movement towards more sustainable 3D printing—reach out to your local account manager or contact Channel Prime Alliance for more information today!
