In the rapidly advancing field of material science, PLA (polylactic acid) and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) stand as two prominent materials in the plastics manufacturing industry, playing critical roles across various applications.
They are among the most popular materials and common materials used in plastics manufacturing and 3D printing.
With increasing emphasis on sustainability, the differences between PLA and ABS in terms of eco-friendliness, durability, and cost-effectiveness have sparked widespread discussion.
This article delves into the performance of PLA vs ABS in diverse applications, evaluates their respective advantages and disadvantages, and provides practical guidance for selecting the most suitable material for specific needs.
What Is Polylactic Acid(PLA)?
Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable sources such as corn starch, sugarcane, or other plant-based materials.
As a member of the aliphatic polyester family, PLA is synthesized through the fermentation of carbohydrates into lactic acid, followed by polymerization.
Renowned for its eco-friendly properties and versatility, PLA is widely utilized in 3D printing, packaging, medical implants, and disposable products. Its glossy finish and aesthetic appeal make it particularly ideal for decorative items.
In 3D printing, PLA stands out as a cost-effective option, requiring lower printing temperatures and exhibiting minimal warping, making it an accessible and reliable choice for both beginners and seasoned professionals.
What Is Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene(ABS)?
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a common thermoplastic polymer composed of acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene.
ABS is known for its excellent mechanical properties, including high impact resistance, toughness, and durability, making it suitable for applications that require strength and resilience.
In 3D printing, ABS filaments are a go to filament for many users because they can withstand significant mechanical stress and are ideal for demanding projects. However, ABS can produce strong odors during printing, which is important to consider for indoor environments.
ABS is widely used in the manufacturing of household appliances, electronic device housings, and toys such as LEGO bricks due to its ability to endure mechanical stress and harsh conditions.
Its combination of strength, durability, and chemical resistance also makes it a preferred material for various industrial applications, including prototyping and manufacturing components that require robust performance.
PLA vs ABS：Performance Comparison
Due to the three compositions of ABS plastics, it is possible to organically unite the various properties of PB, PAN and PS, giving ABS its distinct properties.
Acrylonitrile brings chemical resistance, heat resistance and a certain surface hardness; Butadiene provides high elasticity and toughness, contributing to the mechanical properties of ABS; Styrene gives ABS plastic good processability and optimized electrical properties.
ABS is also known for its ability to withstand higher temperatures and maintain structural integrity under high temperatures, making it suitable for demanding applications.
PLA, on the other hand, is a new biodegradable material with good compatibility and degradability, as well as good gloss and transparency. PLA and ABS each have distinct properties that influence their suitability for different applications.
Below is a table comparing the typical material properties of PLA and ABS materials, including their tensile strengths, which affect their performance in various uses:
Property | PLA (Polylactic Acid) | ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) |
|---|---|---|
Density (g/cm³) | 1.25 – 1.28 | 1.05 – 1.18 |
Shrinkage Rate (%) | 0.37 – 0.41 | 0.4 – 0.9 |
Melting Temperature (°C) | 157 – 170 | 217 – 237 |
Glass Transition Temperature (°C) | 55 – 65 | 105 – 110 |
Tensile Strength (MPa) | 40 – 60 | 27 – 52 |
Young’s Modulus (Rigidity, GPa) | 1.7 – 3.0 | ~2.0 |
Impact Resistance | Moderate strength | High impact resistance |
Heat Resistance | Lower heat resistance | Better heat resistance and stability |
Printing Temperature (°C) | 160 – 220 | 210 – 250 |
Bed Temperature (°C) | 50 – 60 | 90 – 110 |
When choosing between PLA and ABS, it is important to consider the right material for your specific application by evaluating their material properties, tensile strengths, and ability to withstand temperatures. Selecting the right material ensures optimal performance and durability for your project.
3D Printing With PLA vs ABS filaments: What's The Difference?
In PLA 3D printing, Polylactic Acid (PLA) stands out for its low printing temperature (180–220°C), which minimizes warping and delivers smooth surface finishes with fine details, making it ideal for decorative models, prototypes, and eco-friendly applications.
Its biodegradability and ease of use make it a top choice for beginners and hobbyists. However, PLA’s lower heat resistance limits its use in high-temperature environments.
In contrast, ABS requires elevated temperatures (220–250°C) and a heated bed (80–110°C) to prevent warping during filament printing.
ABS produces parts with matte finishes and is valued for its superior strength, flexibility, and heat resistance, making it suitable for functional components like mechanical parts and electronic housings. However, ABS printing releases potentially harmful fumes, necessitating proper ventilation or an enclosed printer.
Both PLA and ABS, when used in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing, often exhibit visible layer lines. Post-processing techniques, such as sanding, polishing, or acetone vapor smoothing (exclusive to ABS), are essential to achieve smooth surface finishes, enhancing both the aesthetics and structural integrity of printed parts.
PLA vs ABS：Pros And Cons
When considering materials for 3D printing or manufacturing, PLA and ABS emerge as popular choices, each boasting unique strengths and facing distinct challenges.
Pros of PLA
High transparency: PLA has a smooth surface, resulting in aesthetically pleasing printed models.
Antibacterial properties: PLA is the only biodegradable plastic with excellent antibacterial and antifungal characteristics.
Biodegradable: After use, PLA can be fully degraded by microorganisms into carbon dioxide and water, offering lower energy consumption and carbon footprint.
Safety: PLA’s degradation product, L-lactic acid, is metabolized by the human body and approved by the FDA for medical sutures, injectable capsules, microspheres, and implants.
Cost efficient: PLA is a cost efficient option for many users, providing affordability and good value for general 3D printing needs.
Cons of PLA
Poor heat resistance: PLA is less heat-resistant than ABS, making it unsuitable for high-temperature components.
Higher price: PLA is priced higher than ABS, despite their similar functionalities.
Not suitable for tool handles: Due to its brittleness, PLA is not recommended for durable objects like tool handles where strength and impact resistance are required.
Pros of ABS
Durability: ABS has higher strength and toughness, making it ideal for wear-resistant, corrosion-resistant parts. It is often the right filament for practical applications such as prototyping and low-stress end-use parts.
Excellent durability: ABS offers excellent durability, and when a stronger material is needed, filled ABS or nylon blends (such as those with fiberglass or carbon fiber) can be used for enhanced strength and stiffness.
Heat resistance: ABS has a higher glass transition temperature and melting point than PLA, suited for applications requiring thermal stability.
Easy to process: ABS can be easily post-processed with techniques like sanding, painting, gluing, or steam smoothing, allowing greater customization and improved aesthetics.
Prefer ABS: Many designers and engineers prefer ABS as the right filament for practical applications that require better ductility, strength, and durability.
Cons of ABS
Warping tendency: ABS filament cools down much faster on the build platform due to its higher extrusion temperature, leading to warping at edges and corners.
Fume emission: Although mostly non-toxic, ABS emits unpleasant plastic odors when heated, not recommended for children’s use.
Environmental impact: ABS has a greater environmental impact compared to PLA, as it is not biodegradable and is less sustainable, making it less eco-friendly for users concerned about environmental footprint.
For those seeking environmentally friendly solutions and whose projects do not require high-temperature resistance, PLA is an excellent choice.
For applications that demand high strength, heat resistance, and functional parts, ABS offers more suitable performance.
PLA vs ABS：Applications
After understanding the strengths and weaknesses of both materials, one might wonder: What products can be made from PLA and ABS?
When selecting materials for specific applications, design considerations such as strength, durability, and performance requirements are crucial. Comparing PLA, ABS, and other materials helps ensure the right filament is chosen for the intended use.
Below, we list the applications and specific products for each material as a reference.
Applications of PLA
Biodegradable Packaging
Derived from renewable resources, PLA injection molding is widely used for eco-friendly packaging, such as food containers, films, and disposable cutlery, especially when certified as food-safe.
Medical Implants
PLA’s biocompatibility and biodegradability make it suitable for medical applications like sutures, temporary implants, and drug delivery systems that safely degrade in the body.
Prototype Manufacturing
As one of the most widely used thermoplastics in FDM/FFF printing, nearly all material manufacturers offer PLA filament or granules in their product lines.
PLA is a go to filament for prototyping applications and functional prototypes, as well as for decorative and low-stress printed parts. It is often selected as the right filament for rapid prototyping due to its ease of use and good surface finish on printed parts.
Applications of ABS Parts
Automotive Parts
The impact resistance and heat tolerance of ABS make it suitable for manufacturing car exteriors, dashboards, steering wheels, and other automotive components. ABS is also suitable for parts printed for use in outdoor environments and outdoor use, thanks to its resistance to UV light and weathering.
Electronic Housings
ABS material is commonly used for enclosures of electronic devices (e.g., phone cases, keyboard shells) due to its robustness and ability to withstand moderate heat and wear.
Functional parts
ABS plastic can be used to manufacture general mechanical components for machinery, such as gears, impellers, bearings, handles, pipes, fittings, and battery slots.
ABS and other materials can be blended to achieve a wider range of mechanical properties, including flexible parts for applications that require bendable or compressible components.
When it comes to industry examples, PLA and ABS are both go to filament choices for different sectors, depending on whether the application requires rapid prototyping, functional prototypes, or durable end-use printed parts.
Key Differences Between PLA and ABS
In summary, both PLA and ABS offer distinct advantages and limitations that cater to different needs in 3D printing and manufacturing.
PLA, derived from renewable resources, is environmentally friendly, easy to print, and ideal for decorative and low-stress applications due to its smooth surface finishes and cost efficiency.
However, its lower heat resistance and brittleness limit its use in high-temperature or mechanically demanding environments.
Conversely, ABS provides superior impact resistance, heat resistance, and durability, making it suitable for functional parts, industrial applications, and products requiring toughness and flexibility.
Yet, ABS demands higher printing temperatures, a heated bed, and proper ventilation due to its warping tendencies and odor emission.
Understanding these unique properties and material characteristics is essential to selecting the right filament type for your specific project, ensuring optimal performance, longevity, and environmental considerations.
