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PLA

Polylactic acid or polylactide (PLA) plastic is a biodegradable material made from renewable resources. Commonly used to produce films and bottles, PLA plastic is cost effective and readily available.

  • Biodegradable
  • Cost Effective
  • High in Strength and Modulus
  • Overview

    Polylactic acid or polylactide (PLA) is a thermoplastic made from renewable resources. Depending on the region it is produced in, these resources could include; corn starch, tapioca roots or sugarcane. Commonly used in the food and beverage industry, PLA plastic can be used to wrap eco-sensitive food products. PLA plastic is not heat resistant, meaning it melts making it ideal for creating shrink wraps for food packaging.

    Plastic Recycling Chart

    Resin Identification Code #1 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #7
    Abbreviation PET or PETE HDPE PVC LDPE PP PS OTHER PLA
    Polymer Name Polyethylene Terephthalate High-Density Polyethylene Polyvinyl Chloride Low-Density Polyethylene Polypropylene Polystyrene All Other Plastics Polylactic Acid
    Recyclable Commonly Recycled Commonly Recycled Somethims Recycled Somethims Recycled Occasionally Recycled Commonly Recycled (but diffcult to do) Difficult to Recycle Compostable
    % Recycled Annually 36% 30~35% <1% 6% 3% 34% Low Low
    Time to Decompose 5~10 years 100 years never 500~1000 years 20~30 years 50 years never 6 months
    Toxicity Level High Low High Low Low High High -
    Max Temperature 70°C (158°F) 120°C (248°F) 70°C (158°F) 80°C (176°F) 135°C (275°F) 90°C (194°F) 135°C (275°F) 150°C (302°F)
    Brittleness Temperature -40°C (-40°F) -100°C (-148°F) -30°C (-22°F) -100°C (-148°F) 0°C (32°F) -20°C (-4°F) -135°C (-211°F) 60°C (140°F)