PLA does not give off an unpleasant odor when heated or printed. PLA is a biodegradable and eco-friendly material that is derived from natural sources such as cornstarch and sugarcane. Unlike other plastics that release harmful chemicals and fumes, PLA has a sweet and pleasant smell that is similar to popcorn or candy.
In this article, we will explore the reasons why PLA smells sweet, the benefits of using PLA for 3D printing, and the potential drawbacks of PLA in terms of quality and durability. We will also provide some tips on how to store and handle PLA properly to avoid any issues.
PLA stands for polylactic acid, which is a type of polymer that consists of repeating units of lactic acid. Lactic acid is a natural substance that is produced by the fermentation of carbohydrates, such as glucose and sucrose, by bacteria or yeast. Lactic acid is also found in dairy products, such as yogurt and cheese, and in human muscles during exercise.
The lactic acid molecules can be linked together to form long chains, called PLA, by a process called polymerization. PLA can be made into different shapes and forms, such as pellets, fibers, films, and 3D printing filaments. PLA is one of the most popular materials for 3D printing, especially for beginners and hobbyists, because of its ease of use, low cost, and environmental friendliness.
PLA smells sweet because of its organic composition. It does not contain any harmful or toxic chemicals that typically release foul odors when heated or melted. PLA is also biodegradable and compostable, which means it can be broken down by microorganisms into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. PLA is considered a renewable and sustainable material, as it can be made from renewable resources, such as corn, sugarcane, and other plants.
What Are the Benefits of Using PLA for 3D Printing?
PLA has many advantages over other materials for 3D printing, such as ABS, PETG, and nylon. Some of the benefits of using PLA are:
PLA is easy to print with. It has a low melting point, around 180°C to 220°C, which means it can be printed on most 3D printers without requiring a heated bed or an enclosure. PLA also has good adhesion to the print surface, which reduces the chances of warping or curling. PLA is also less prone to clogging or jamming the nozzle, as it does not produce any sticky or oily residues.
PLA is safe and odorless. PLA does not emit any harmful or unpleasant fumes or gases when heated or printed. PLA is also non-toxic and biocompatible, which means it can be used for medical applications, such as implants, prosthetics, and surgical tools. PLA is also safe for children and pets, as it does not pose any choking or ingestion hazards.
PLA is versatile and customizable. PLA can be printed in a variety of colors, finishes, and textures, depending on the type and quality of the filament. PLA can also be mixed with other additives, such as wood, metal, carbon fiber, or glow-in-the-dark, to create unique and functional prints. PLA can also be post-processed, such as sanding, polishing, painting, or coating, to improve its appearance and performance.
PLA is affordable and widely available. PLA is one of the cheapest and most common materials for 3D printing, as it can be mass-produced from abundant and inexpensive sources, such as corn and sugarcane. PLA can be found in most online and offline stores that sell 3D printing supplies, in various brands, sizes, and prices.
What Are the Drawbacks of Using PLA for 3D Printing?
PLA is not a perfect material, and it has some limitations and disadvantages that need to be considered before using it for 3D printing. Some of the drawbacks of using PLA are:
PLA is not very durable or strong. PLA has a low tensile strength, which means it can break or snap easily under stress or pressure. PLA also has a low impact resistance, which means it can crack or shatter when dropped or hit. PLA is also not very flexible or elastic, which means it can deform or warp when bent or stretched.
PLA is not very heat-resistant or UV-resistant. PLA has a low glass transition temperature, around 60°C to 65°C, which means it can soften or melt when exposed to high temperatures, such as sunlight, hot water, or hot air. PLA also degrades when exposed to UV rays, such as sunlight, which can cause it to lose its color, shine, and strength.
PLA is not very water-resistant or moisture-resistant. PLA is hygroscopic, which means it absorbs water from the air or the environment. This can affect its print quality, as it can cause bubbles, cracks, or stringing. PLA also degrades when exposed to water, especially hot water, which can cause it to dissolve or decompose.
To avoid any problems or issues with PLA, it is important to store and handle it properly. Here are some tips on how to do so:
Store PLA in a cool, dry, and dark place. PLA should be kept away from heat, moisture, and sunlight, as they can damage its quality and performance. PLA should also be stored in an airtight container or bag, preferably with a desiccant or silica gel, to prevent it from absorbing any moisture from the air.
Use PLA within a reasonable time frame. PLA has a shelf life of around 6 to 12 months, depending on the quality and condition of the filament. PLA can degrade over time, especially if it is exposed to heat, moisture, or sunlight. PLA can also lose its diameter or roundness, which can affect its printability and accuracy. PLA should be used as soon as possible after opening the package, or replaced with a fresh spool if it shows any signs of deterioration or damage.
Print PLA at the optimal settings and conditions. PLA should be printed at the recommended temperature, speed, and layer height, depending on the type and quality of the filament and the printer. PLA should also be printed in a well-ventilated and stable environment, to avoid any fluctuations or disturbances that can affect its print quality and consistency.
Conclusion
PLA is a great material for 3D printing, as it is easy to use, safe, odorless, eco-friendly, versatile, and affordable. PLA does not give off an unpleasant odor when heated or printed, unlike other plastics that release harmful chemicals and fumes. PLA has a sweet and pleasant smell that is similar to popcorn or candy, due to its organic composition.
However, PLA also has some drawbacks, such as low durability, strength, flexibility, heat resistance, UV resistance, water resistance, and moisture resistance. PLA also requires proper storage and handling, to avoid any degradation or damage. PLA is suitable for 3D printing objects that are not exposed to high stress, temperature, or moisture, such as decorative items, toys, models, or prototypes.
We hope this article has answered your question about PLA and its odor, and has given you some useful information and tips on how to use PLA for 3D printing. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Happy printing!
