Despite the distinction in raw materials, PLA can be manufactured using the same equipment as petrochemical plastics, making the production process relatively cost-efficient. As the second most produced bioplastic (after thermoplastic starch), PLA shares similarities with polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polystyrene (PS), while also being biodegradable.
PLA is a type of polyester created through the fermentation of plant starch derived from crops like corn, cassava, maize, sugarcane, or sugar beet pulp. The sugar in these renewable materials undergoes fermentation and is converted into lactic acid, which is then used to produce polylactic acid (PLA).
The material properties of PLA make it suitable for various applications, including the production of plastic film, bottles, and biodegradable medical devices like screws, pins, plates, and rods designed to degrade within 6 to 12 months. PLA is also used as a shrink-wrap material due to its ability to constrict under heat. Additionally, its low melting point makes it suitable for 3D printing applications. However, PLA with low glass transition temperature is not suitable for hot beverage containers.
PLA production consumes 65% less energy compared to conventional plastics and generates 68% fewer greenhouse gases. It is also free from toxins. However, the rate of degradation is slow under normal temperatures, with studies showing minimal degradation after one year of submersion in seawater at 25°C. PLA can degrade through hydrolysis, thermal degradation, or photodegradation when exposed to UV radiation.
PLA offers several advantages over other materials, including:
Environmentally friendly when properly disposed of
Easy to use in 3D printing
Safe for food containers and medical devices
Available in various composite and color options for different properties and appearances
Can be solvent welded using dichloromethane
However, there are some drawbacks to using PLA, including:
Low heat resistance
Relatively low strength
Challenging machine processing
In conclusion, Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a renewable and biodegradable thermoplastic that finds applications in various industries. Its environmentally friendly nature, ease of use in 3D printing, and suitability for food and medical applications make it a popular choice. However, its limitations include low heat resistance, relatively low strength, and difficulties in machine processing.
Polylactic acid, commonly referred to as PLA, is a renewable and organic thermoplastic monomer derived from sources like corn starch or sugar cane. Unlike most plastics that are produced from fossil fuels through petroleum distillation and polymerization, PLA production utilizes biomass resources.
Sodium dichloroisocyanurate, derived from chlorinated hydroxy triazine, is a sodium salt widely utilized as a source of chlorine, specifically in the form of hypochlorous acid, for water disinfection purposes.
Propylene carbonate is a petroleum-derived ingredient used in skincare and cosmetics. It acts as a solvent, dissolving other ingredients, and helps adjust the thickness of formulations. It enhances product texture and spreadability. Propylene carbonate has been deemed safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations typically used, according to safety assessments.
© 2022 All rights reserved
