poly(lactic acid)
polymerPoly(lactic acid), or PLA, is a thermoplastic polymer derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane, making it a bio-based alternative to petroleum-derived plastics. It combines moderate stiffness with good processability, and is notable for its biodegradability in industrial composting environments—a significant advantage over conventional polymers when end-of-life environmental impact is a design constraint. PLA is widely used in consumer packaging, textiles, and durable goods where moderate temperature performance suffices, and is increasingly adopted in medical devices and 3D printing applications where both biocompatibility and material sustainability are priorities.
food and beverage packagingbioresorbable medical devices3D printing filamenttextile fibers and nonwovensconsumer electronics housingsagricultural films
Compliance & Regulations
?UL 94?Conflict Free?RoHS?REACH?TSCA?Prop 65
| Property | Value | Unit | Conditions | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Compressive Strength(σc) | — | ksi | — | — | |
Elongation at Break(εf) | — | - | — | — | |
Flexural Strength (MOR)(σf) | — | ksi | — | — | |
Ultimate Tensile Strength(σUTS) | — | ksi | — | — | |
Young's Modulus(E) | — | ksi | — | — |
Verified Unverified Low confidence (<80%) Link to source
| Property | Value | Unit | Conditions | Source | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Glass Transition Temperature(Tg) | — | °F | — | — | |
Melting Point / Solidus(Tm) | — | °F | — | — | |
Maximum Service Temperature(Tmax) | — | °F | — | — | |
Thermal Conductivity(k) | — | BTU/(hr·ft·°F) | — | — |
Verified Unverified Low confidence (<80%) Link to source
Regulatory Screening
Environmental
Safety & Biocompatibility
RoHS, REACH, and Prop 65 statuses are validated against official substance lists (ECHA SVHC Candidate List, OEHHA Prop 65, RoHS Annex II). Other regulations are estimated from composition and material classification. All screening is a starting point for due diligence — always verify with your supplier before making compliance decisions.