3. Properties
PLA is characterized by very high rigidity and low elongation at break. Like polystyrene, it is very brittle in its pure form.
PLA is a semi-crystalline polymer with a melting temperature for the crystalline phase of around 175°C and a glass transition temperature for the amorphous phase of around 60°C.
PLA's optical properties are excellent, with low haze and high gloss, making it a very bright and transparent material.
It is a highly reactive polar material, unlike polyolefins. It also has a higher surface tension than polyolefins (around 40 mJ/m2 vs. 30 mJ/m2), making it easier to print.
PLA is also highly permeable to water vapor, making it a material of choice for applications such as textiles or fresh vegetable packaging, but severely limiting its use in more "airtight" packaging, such as dry goods.
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Properties