PLA
Frequently asked questions
Can PLA be laser cut?
With some limitations: PLA can be laser cut.
Can PLA be CNC machined?
Yes: PLA can be CNC machined.
Can PLA be 3D printed?
Yes, using FDM.
Is PLA food safe?
Yes, PLA is food safe even in its raw state.
Physical properties
| Density | 1240.0–1250.0 kg/m³ |
|---|---|
| Tensile strength | 50.0 MPa |
| Melting point | 150.0–180.0 °C |
| Glass transition (Tg) | 55.0 °C |
| Thermal expansion | 68.0 µm/m·K |
| Moisture absorption | Low |
Laser processing
Releases sweet-smelling fumes with a typical cotton candy or popcorn odour (lactide). Non-toxic, but normal air exchange is still recommended.
CO₂: Not recommended for cutting as it tends to melt and drip along the edges, losing definition. Engraving is possible but with poor visual definition.
Diode: Highly discouraged. Overheating completely deforms the piece.
Fiber: Not suitable.
CNC / milling processing
Machinable on CNC with caution. Having a very low Tg (~55°C), it tends to melt and wrap around the bit if machined at low feed rates or excessively high RPM. Use single-flute bits and rapid feed rates.
3D printing
Plotter and thermoforming
Post-processing
Sanding: Difficult to dry-sand because friction heat instantly melts the surface and clogs the paper. Sand exclusively wet (with water) to remove layers. Grit 180 → 240 → 400.
Primer: mandatory. For 3D prints, a filler primer must be applied to level the grooves between layer lines before painting.
Gluing: Perfectly bondable with cyanoacrylate glue (superglue) or structural epoxy adhesives. Does not react to acetone.
Over time: Temperature-sensitive. Deforms if left in summer sun (car or display cabinets) where temperatures exceed 50°C. Not suitable for outdoor applications.
Common defects
- Material melting and welding to the tool during CNC milling
- Early structural deformation under minimal thermal loads (>50°C)
- Impact brittleness (compared to ABS or PETG)
Safety
Biodegradable thermoplastic polymer derived from corn starch or sugar cane. Very safe to handle.
Availability and formats
Commercial formats: filament 1.75mm, filament 2.85mm, granules
Related materials
Sources
- ISO 11357 — Plastics thermal analysis (melting and transition)
- Datasheet tecnici di produttori filamento PLA
Information on compatibility, processing parameters and safety is purely indicative. MakerSpecs accepts no liability for damage to persons or property arising from the use of this data. Always check the safety rules and the manufacturer's official manuals before carrying out any processing.