Polylactic Acid
Product Description
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable polymer derived from renewable resources, such as corn starch or sugarcane, and it finds a wide range of industrial applications due to its eco-friendly nature and versatile properties.
Product:
Polylactic Acid
CAS:
26100-51-6
Synonym:
Poly(2-hydroxypropionic acid); Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, homopolymer; Lactic acid, polymers
Structure:
Typical Characteristics
Appearance
Translucent or transparent powder
Density
1.25-1.28 g/cm3
Melting point
130-180 °C
Molecular Weight
~30000 to ~60000
Purity
99%
Refractive index
1.4589
Uses, Applications & Markets
Key applications
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We Offer Polylactic Acid
in various grades
A few of the grades available are listed below:
Polylactic Acid used in many
industry applications
Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable polymer derived from renewable resources, such as corn starch or sugarcane, and it finds a wide range of industrial applications due to its eco-friendly nature and versatile properties. Here are some of its industrial uses:
- Packaging Materials: PLA is commonly used in the production of packaging materials, including bottles, containers, trays, and films. It offers excellent clarity, stiffness, and barrier properties, making it suitable for food packaging, consumer products, and medical packaging applications.
- Biomedical Devices: PLA is utilized in the manufacture of biomedical devices, such as sutures, implants, drug delivery systems, and tissue engineering scaffolds. Its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical properties make it suitable for various medical and healthcare applications.
- Textiles: PLA fibers are employed in the textile industry for the production of environmentally friendly fabrics and garments. PLA-based textiles offer properties similar to conventional synthetic fibers, such as polyester, but with the advantage of biodegradability and reduced environmental impact.
- 3D Printing: PLA is widely used as a filament material in 3D printing due to its ease of processing, low toxicity, and biodegradability. It is suitable for producing prototypes, models, and consumer products using additive manufacturing techniques.
- Disposable Tableware: PLA-based disposable tableware, such as cups, plates, and cutlery, is increasingly popular as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic utensils. These products are compostable and biodegradable, reducing environmental pollution.
- Agricultural Films: PLA films are utilized in agriculture for mulching, greenhouse covering, and crop protection. These biodegradable films help improve soil quality, retain moisture, and reduce the need for synthetic plastic films, contributing to sustainable farming practices.
- Personal Care Products: PLA is used in the production of personal care products, such as cosmetics packaging, disposable wipes, and hygiene products. Its biodegradability and versatility make it suitable for various applications in the personal care industry.
- Automotive Components: PLA-based composites are employed in the automotive industry for the production of interior components, upholstery, and trim parts. These lightweight materials offer good mechanical properties and can be recycled at the end of their useful life.
- Films and Coatings: PLA coatings and films are applied to paperboard, cardboard, and other substrates to enhance barrier properties, moisture resistance, and printability. These biodegradable coatings are used in food packaging, labels, and graphics applications.
- Consumer Products: PLA is used in the manufacturing of various consumer products, including disposable razors, toys, electronics, and office supplies. Its biodegradability, low toxicity, and renewable origin make it an attractive material for eco-conscious consumers.