Biodegradable cutlery beside a fresh salad plate on a warm cafe table
ProductsBiodegradablesPLA

PLA

Polylactic Acid — a plant-based biodegradable thermoplastic derived from corn starch or sugarcane. High rigidity, excellent clarity, and full compostability make PLA the world's most popular bioplastic.

Compostable Plant-Based
175°C
Melting Point
3500
Tensile Modulus (MPa)
50 MPa
Tensile Strength
1.24
Specific Gravity (g/cm³)
Why PLA

Plant-Based. High-Performance.

PLA is derived from annually renewable crops, not petroleum. It offers the strength and rigidity of conventional plastics with the environmental advantage of full compostability. The ideal complement to PBAT in biodegradable blends.

Renewable Resource

Derived from corn starch or sugarcane — annually renewable crops, not finite fossil fuels. A genuine step toward circular material economies.

High Strength & Rigidity

Tensile strength of 50 MPa and modulus of 3500 MPa. Comparable to PS and PET for rigid packaging, containers, and structural applications.

Excellent Clarity

Natural transparency makes PLA ideal for clear packaging, cups, and containers where product visibility matters. No colourant needed for clear applications.

Biocompatible

Safe for food contact and medical applications. Used in sutures, implants, and drug delivery systems due to its biocompatibility and controlled degradation.

Blend Partner for PBAT

PLA provides rigidity while PBAT adds flexibility. PLA+PBAT blends are the global standard for compostable bags, films, and food packaging.

3D Printing Standard

PLA is the world's most popular 3D printing filament. Low toxicity, easy printability, and biodegradability make it the first choice for makers and industry alike.

Applications

What You Can Make with PLA

1

Packaging & Films

Compostable food packaging, shopping bags, containers, and clear films. The leading bioplastic for single-use packaging applications.

2

Disposable Tableware

Cups, plates, cutlery, and straws for the food service industry. Compostable alternative to PS and PP disposables.

3

Textiles & Fibres

Breathable, moisture-wicking PLA fibres for sportswear, activewear, and non-woven fabrics. Biodegradable textile solutions.

4

Medical Devices

Sutures, surgical mesh, drug delivery systems, dental products, and orthopaedic implants. Biocompatible and controllably absorbable.

5

3D Printing Filament

The world's most popular 3D printing material. Used by hobbyists, educational institutions, and industry for prototyping and production.

6

Agricultural Films

Biodegradable mulch films that decompose in soil. Eliminates plastic waste in farming and saves the cost of film removal after harvest.

At a Glance

Key Properties

Core specifications for PLA resin. For full technical data, processing parameters, and comparison tables — see the Technical Data Sheet.

Chemical NamePolylactic Acid
Specific Gravity1.240 g/cm³
MFI (190°C / 2.16 kg)70 g/10min
Melting Temperature175°C
Glass Transition Temp60°C
Tensile Modulus3500 MPa
Tensile Strength50 MPa
Elongation at Break< 5%
Processing

Versatile Processing Options

Pre-dry at 60°C for 4 hours. PLA processes at 170–210°C barrel temperature. Compatible with most standard thermoplastic processing equipment.

Injection Moulding Film Extrusion Thermoforming Blow Moulding 3D Printing Fibre Spinning
Storage

Cool, dry conditions below 30°C. Keep sealed, away from sunlight and moisture. Shelf life: 12 months from manufacture. Moisture content must be below 140 ppm before processing.

Get Started

Ready to Go Plant-Based?

Request samples, get competitive pricing, or talk to our team about PLA grades, blending with PBAT, and processing guidance.