Polylactic acid, also known as PLA, is a thermoplastic monomer derived from renewable, organic sources such as corn starch or sugar cane. Using biomass resources makes PLA production different from most plastics, which are produced using fossil fuels through the distillation and polymerization of petroleum.
Despite the raw material differences, PLA can be produced using the same equipment as petrochemical plastics, making PLA manufacturing processes relatively cost efficient. PLA is the second most produced bioplastic (after thermoplastic starch) and has similar characteristics to polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), or polystyrene (PS), as well as being biodegradeable.
How is it Made?
PLA is a type of polyester made from fermented plant starch from corn, cassava, maize, sugarcane, or sugar beet pulp. The sugar in these renewable materials is fermented and turned into lactic acid which is then made into polylactic acid, or PLA.
Is it Environmentally Friendly?
PLA production uses 65% less energy than producing conventional plastics and generates 68% fewer greenhouse gases and contains no toxins. It can also remain environmentally friendly should the correct end-of-life scenario be followed.
PLA can be degraded by hydrolysis, thermal degradation, or photodegradation.
What is it Used For?
The material properties of PLA makes it suitable for the manufacture of plastic film, bottles and biodegradable medical devices, shopping bag and beverage straw etc.