PLA (Polylactic Acid) is the most popular 3D printing material. Made from renewable resources like corn starch, it’s biodegradable, easy to print, and produces minimal odor.
Properties
- Ease of Printing — Easiest material to print, great for beginners
- Surface Quality — Excellent detail and smooth finish
- Odor — Minimal, safe for indoor use without ventilation
- Strength — Moderate; sufficient for decorative and light functional parts
- Heat Resistance — Low (~60°C glass transition), not suitable for hot environments
Best Practices
- No heated bed required (but recommended at 50-60°C)
- Fan at 100% after first layer
- No enclosure needed
- Store in dry conditions to prevent brittleness