PLA material properties and uses in 3D Printing - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What does PLA stand for in 3D printing?

PLA stands for Polylactic Acid, a biodegradable plastic made from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane.

beginner

Name two key properties of PLA that make it popular for 3D printing.

PLA is easy to print because it melts at a relatively low temperature and produces minimal warping. It is also biodegradable and has a pleasant smell when printing.

intermediate

Why is PLA considered environmentally friendly compared to other plastics?

PLA is made from natural materials like corn starch, making it biodegradable and compostable under the right conditions, unlike petroleum-based plastics.

beginner

List two common uses of PLA in 3D printing.

PLA is commonly used for prototypes, educational models, toys, and decorative items because it is easy to print and has good surface finish.

intermediate

What is a limitation of PLA when used for functional parts?

PLA has low heat resistance and can deform at temperatures above 60°C, making it less suitable for parts exposed to heat or mechanical stress.

What is the main raw material used to make PLA?

A Corn starch

B Petroleum

C Glass fibers

D Metal powder

PLA is made from natural materials like corn starch or sugarcane, not petroleum or metals.

Which property makes PLA easy to print?

A Low melting temperature

B Magnetic properties

C High electrical conductivity

D High melting temperature

PLA melts at a relatively low temperature, which helps it print easily with less warping.

Which of these is a common use for PLA?

A Heat-resistant engine parts

B Food packaging

C Educational models

D Electrical wiring

PLA is often used for educational models and prototypes, not for heat-resistant or electrical applications.

What happens to PLA when exposed to temperatures above 60°C?

A It melts instantly

B It can deform or soften

C It becomes stronger

D It becomes magnetic

PLA softens and can deform at temperatures above about 60°C, limiting its use in hot environments.

Why is PLA considered biodegradable?

A It dissolves in water

B It is made of metal

C It evaporates quickly

D It breaks down naturally under composting conditions

PLA can break down naturally in industrial composting environments, unlike many plastics.

Explain what PLA is and why it is popular for 3D printing.

Think about the material's origin and printing benefits.

Describe two advantages and one limitation of using PLA for 3D printed objects.

Consider both what makes PLA good and where it might fail.