PLA density and material properties
PLA (polylactic acid) has a density of 1.24 g/cm³ — heavier than PP (0.91) or ABS (1.04) but lighter than PET (1.38). This guide compiles the full property sheet used by engineers specifying PLA for 3D printing filament, injection moulding or compostable packaging: density, tensile modulus, Tg, HDT, MFI, shrinkage, moisture uptake and chemical resistance, with the main commercial grades (NatureWorks Ingeo, TotalEnergies Corbion Luminy, Sulzer).
What to look for
- Density 1.24 g/cm³ (amorphous) to 1.25 g/cm³ (semi-crystalline PLLA)
- Tensile strength 50–70 MPa, modulus 3.0–3.8 GPa
- Glass transition (Tg) 55–65 °C — the practical service ceiling
- HDT 55 °C (unannealed) up to 110 °C (annealed / stereocomplex PLA)
- Melt flow 6–25 g/10 min at 210 °C for filament and injection grades
Top materials for pla density and material properties
- #1ABSAcrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
A tough engineering thermoplastic widely used in automotive, consumer products, electronics and 3D printing.
- #2PolycarbonatePolycarbonate
A transparent, high-impact engineering plastic used in glazing, electronics and safety equipment.
- #3PETGPolyethylene Terephthalate Glycol
A clear, food-safe, easy-to-print thermoplastic combining PET's strength with excellent formability.
- #4PEEKPolyether Ether Ketone
A semi-crystalline high-performance polymer with outstanding thermal, chemical, and mechanical properties.
- #5PLAPolylactic Acid
PLA density 1.24 g/cm³, tensile 50–65 MPa, Tg 60 °C. Biodegradable plant-based thermoplastic and the most popular 3D printing filament.
- #6HDPEHigh-Density Polyethylene
A rigid, chemical-resistant polyethylene used for bottles, pipes, and industrial containers.
- #7PolypropylenePolypropylene
A lightweight, fatigue-resistant polymer ubiquitous in packaging, textiles, and living hinges.
- #8Acrylic (PMMA)Poly(methyl methacrylate)
A rigid, glass-clear thermoplastic offering excellent UV resistance and optical clarity.
- #9PA11 FlexiblePolyamide 11 Flexible
Bio-based, excellent flexibility, good impact strength and chemical resistance.
- #10PA610 Low AbsorptionPolyamide 610 Low Absorption
Lower moisture absorption than PA6/PA66, good chemical and dimensional stability.
- #11PPS GF40Polyphenylene Sulfide, 40% Glass Fiber Reinforced
Exceptional thermal stability, chemical resistance, and inherent flame retardancy.
- #12PSU StandardPolysulfone Standard
High temperature resistance, good mechanical strength, and transparency.
- #13MABS TransparentMethacrylate-Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene Transparent
Clear, tough, and good chemical resistance.
- #14HDPE Injection MoldingHigh-Density Polyethylene for Injection Molding
Rigid, strong, and chemically resistant material for crates, caps, and household goods.
- #15UHMWPE Bearing GradeUltra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene Bearing Grade
Exceptional wear resistance and low friction for demanding mechanical applications.
- #16PS Crystal Injection MoldingGeneral Purpose Polystyrene (Crystal) for Injection Molding
Transparent, rigid, and easily processed material for disposable cutlery, packaging, and CD cases.
- #17GPPS Sheet ExtrusionGeneral Purpose Polystyrene for Sheet Extrusion
Transparent, rigid sheets for displays, signage, and protective barriers.
- #18PVC Rigid PipeRigid Polyvinyl Chloride for Pipe Applications
Durable, corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective for water and drainage pipes.
- #19PVC Flexible CableFlexible Polyvinyl Chloride for Cable Jacketing
Durable, flexible, and flame-retardant for electrical cable insulation and jacketing.
- #20PMP Transparent High TempPoly(4-methyl-1-pentene) for High-Temperature Transparent Applications
Outstanding transparency, heat resistance, and low density.
Frequently asked
PLA has a density of 1.24 g/cm³ — measured per ISO 1183. Semi-crystalline PLLA reaches 1.25 g/cm³; talc- or mineral-filled PLA compounds can climb to 1.35–1.45 g/cm³.
PLA stands for polylactic acid — a biobased, compostable thermoplastic polyester produced by ring-opening polymerisation of lactide from fermented corn or sugarcane.
Neat PLA reaches 50–70 MPa tensile strength with 3.0–3.8 GPa modulus. Toughened / impact-modified grades trade ~15 MPa for 20–40 % elongation at break.
PLA resists dilute acids and alcohols at room temperature but hydrolyses in strong acids, bases, or hot water above 60 °C. That hydrolysis is the mechanism behind industrial composting.
NatureWorks Ingeo (2003D, 3251D, 4032D, 6202D), TotalEnergies Corbion Luminy (L130, LX175, LX975), Sulzer PLA, and Zhejiang Hisun REVODE.