Chloe Zhang
Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a type of plastic that is commonly used in 3D printing. It is known for its biodegradability, but the longevity of PLA objects can vary depending on various factors such as temperature, humidity, sunlight exposure, and the quality of the filament brand. When kept indoors, PLA objects can last for at least 15 years, but when exposed to outdoor conditions, they may degrade much faster due to the effects of photodegradation and hydrolysis. Understanding the longevity of PLA is crucial for ensuring the durability and functionality of 3D printed objects over time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Longevity of PLA plastic in a backyard compost bin | 15 years |
| Longevity of PLA plastic in a cupboard or bedroom | 15 years |
| Longevity of PLA plastic kept indoors | At least 15 years |
| Longevity of PLA plastic kept outdoors | About a year |
| Longevity of PLA plastic kept outdoors in buried form | Months or years |
| Longevity of PLA plastic kept outdoors in exposed form | Depends on temperature, humidity, and exposure to sunlight |
| Longevity of PLA plastic filament | Less than a year after opening |
| Factors affecting the longevity of PLA plastic | Heat, UV rays, humidity, moisture, force, dyes, additives, type of pigments used, brand, and cost |
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What You'll Learn
The impact of UV exposure and sunlight
The longevity of PLA plastic varies depending on several factors, including UV exposure and sunlight.
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a biodegradable material that can be broken down into its constituent monomers by biological matter. While it is not technically sensitive to UV light, long-term exposure to sunlight can affect its longevity. The dyes and added polymers inside most PLA filaments are not UV-resistant and will deteriorate if left in the sun for extended periods. This can result in a gradual fading of colours, with PLA taking on a characteristic yellow colour.
The impact of UV exposure on PLA can be observed through increased brittleness and bleached colours. UV radiation induces crosslinking reactions in PLA, making it stiffer and more prone to breaking apart. Additionally, the crosslinks are more susceptible to oxidation, which further deteriorates the polymer into smaller chains.
When exposed to direct sunlight, PLA may begin degrading within a matter of weeks, and its structural integrity can be compromised within 2-3 months, depending on the climate. However, in non-direct sunlight, PLA can retain its strength for several months to years, although some discoloration may occur.
The presence of moisture can also affect the longevity of PLA in sunlight. Elevated temperatures increase the diffusion rate of moisture into PLA, making it more prone to hydrolysis. Therefore, hot and humid environments can accelerate the breakdown of PLA.
To prolong the lifespan of PLA in outdoor settings, protective measures such as applying UV-resistant coatings or paints can be implemented. However, due to its low heat resistance and susceptibility to degradation in sunlight, PLA is generally not recommended for long-term outdoor use.
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The effect of temperature and heat
Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a thermoplastic polyester derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. It is one of the most popular 3D printing filaments due to its ease of use, good printability, and environmentally friendly characteristics.
However, when it comes to temperature resistance, PLA has its limitations. The glass transition temperature of PLA is around 60 to 65 degrees Celsius, and at these temperatures, PLA will begin to deform, warp, or soften. This relatively low temperature resistance impacts the dimensional stability of printed objects and limits how and where PLA can be used. For example, PLA is not suitable for microwavable containers or products that will be exposed to high temperatures.
The thermal properties of a material determine the working conditions it can withstand and influence its longevity and performance. A material with high temperature resistance, such as ABS or Nylon, will maintain its form and structure even when subjected to high temperatures, ensuring its durability and longevity in extreme conditions.
To improve the temperature resistance of PLA, heat treatment or annealing can be applied after the printing process. Annealing involves slowly heating the material beyond its glass transition temperature but well below its melting point, allowing the molecular structure to relax and the molecules to move freely. As the material cools, the molecules settle into a stronger and more stable configuration, resulting in increased tensile strength and improved thermal resistance. The optimal heat treatment process for PLA was found to be at 65°C for 5 hours, resulting in a 35% increase in tensile strength without any deformation.
Additionally, the melting temperature of PLA can be increased by physically blending it with PDLA (poly-D-lactide). This blend forms a highly regular stereocomplex with increased crystallinity and temperature stability, further enhancing the heat resistance of PLA.
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Humidity and moisture absorption
PLA plastic is susceptible to moisture absorption, which can negatively impact its longevity. The absorption of moisture by PLA can cause several issues, including weakened prints and damage to 3D printers. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the effects of humidity and moisture absorption on PLA plastic to ensure its longevity.
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a bioplastic derived from plants such as corn, potato, and rice. It is a popular material for 3D printing due to its safety and biodegradability. However, PLA's ability to absorb moisture from the air can be a significant concern. When exposed to humid environments, PLA can absorb moisture in just days, and the higher the humidity, the more moisture it will absorb. This moisture absorption can lead to degradation and oxidation of the plastic, causing it to deform, bloat, and lose its original shape.
The impact of moisture absorption on PLA's strength and durability has been demonstrated in several experiments. In one experiment, PLA was submerged in water for 30 days, resulting in a weight increase of 1-6%. This increase in weight indicates that the PLA had absorbed a considerable amount of water, leading to a decrease in its tensile strength. Another experiment compared the mechanical properties of PLA specimens immersed in water at different temperatures. The results showed that elevated temperatures increased the water absorption rate, and the flexural properties of the specimens decreased significantly with increased moisture absorption.
To mitigate the effects of humidity and moisture absorption, several storage solutions have been suggested. Storing PLA in airtight containers with desiccants, such as silica gel or silica beads, can help maintain low humidity levels. Additionally, keeping the PLA in a dry environment, such as a room with a dehumidifier, can prevent moisture absorption. It is recommended to avoid storing unused PLA filament for extended periods, especially in humid conditions.
While PLA's moisture absorption can impact its longevity, proper storage and environmental control can help prolong its use. By understanding the effects of humidity and moisture, users can implement effective strategies to maintain the quality and longevity of PLA plastic.
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Biodegradability and decomposition
Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a biodegradable plastic. However, it can take a long time to decompose, and the process can be influenced by several factors. Firstly, it is important to note that PLA is not resistant to photodegradation. Prolonged exposure to sunlight or UV radiation can cause the plastic to become brittle and bleached. The UV rays can induce crosslinking reactions, making the PLA stiffer and more prone to breaking. Additionally, the crosslinks are more susceptible to oxidation, which further deteriorates the polymer. While PLA may not yellow as noticeably as some other plastics, its dyes and added polymers are not inherently UV-resistant and will fade or deteriorate over time. Therefore, it is recommended to keep PLA out of direct sunlight to maintain its colour and structure.
Temperature plays a significant role in the longevity of PLA. Elevated temperatures increase the rate of moisture diffusion into PLA, making it more prone to hydrolysis, a process by which the long PLA polymer breaks down into smaller chains. In hot and humid environments, the degradation process is accelerated. Additionally, exposing PLA to high temperatures is generally not advised, as it can affect the filament's longevity. For example, boiling PLA or placing it in an oven is not recommended. However, some users have reported that their PLA prints can withstand hot water without significant degradation.
The presence of water can also impact the longevity of PLA. While PLA does not break down rapidly in water, it is a hygroscopic material, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. This absorption of moisture can significantly affect the print quality of 3D printer filaments. In highly humid environments, any filament can become useless within a few days due to moisture saturation. Therefore, it is crucial to store PLA in a moisture-free environment to maintain its quality.
The biodegradation of PLA can also be influenced by biological matter. When exposed to mediums rich in microorganisms, such as soil, plants, or water, PLA can be broken down into its constituent monomers. However, the rate of biodegradation can vary, and some individuals have reported burying PLA prints only to dig them up months or years later with little to no noticeable decomposition. The longevity of PLA is also affected by factors such as the filament brand, additives, pigments, and dyes used. Higher-quality filaments from reputable brands tend to have longer shelf lives, while certain dyes and pigments can impact the mechanical properties and longevity of the PLA.
Overall, PLA is a biodegradable plastic, but its decomposition can be a slow process, especially when kept in controlled indoor environments. Under normal conditions, such as being stored in a cupboard or used for decorative purposes, PLA can take at least 15 years to break down significantly. However, when exposed to outdoor conditions, the degradation process can be accelerated due to factors such as temperature, humidity, and sunlight exposure.
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Longevity of different colours
The longevity of PLA plastic varies depending on several factors, including temperature, humidity, exposure to sunlight, and colour. While PLA plastic is known for its biodegradability, it can last several years or even indefinitely under normal conditions if kept indoors and away from sunlight.
When it comes to the longevity of different colours of PLA plastic, it is important to consider the impact of dyes and pigments used in the filament. While PLA itself is not technically sensitive to UV light, the dyes and added polymers within the filament are not UV-resistant and will deteriorate if exposed to sunlight for extended periods. This can result in a gradual fading of colours, with plastic taking on a characteristic yellow hue due to UV-induced photodegradation.
The type of pigment used to colour the filament can also affect its strength and durability. For example, it has been observed that the white filament can amplify any inconsistencies in printing, while matt black filament tends to have lower tensile strength. Additionally, some colours may be more prone to brittleness, which can lead to increased fragility over time.
The longevity of coloured PLA plastic can also be influenced by the brand and quality of the filament. Higher-quality filaments from premium brands tend to have longer shelf lives due to the use of better materials. Certain additives and fillers used in the filament can also impact its longevity, with some enhancing durability and others accelerating degradation.
Overall, while the specific colour of PLA plastic may not be the primary factor determining its longevity, the presence of certain dyes and pigments can impact its UV resistance, mechanical properties, and overall durability. To ensure the longest lifespan for coloured PLA plastic, it is crucial to store it in a low-humidity environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
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Frequently asked questions
The longevity of PLA plastic depends on various factors such as temperature, humidity, exposure to sunlight, and the quality of the filament brand. In a compost bin, PLA can last up to 15 years. However, when exposed to outdoor conditions, it may last only about a year before deteriorating heavily.
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause PLA plastic to degrade. While PLA is not technically sensitive to UV light, the dyes and added polymers within the plastic are not UV-resistant and will fade or deteriorate over time.
Yes, elevated temperatures can increase the rate of moisture absorption in PLA, making it more prone to degradation. Additionally, exposing PLA to high temperatures or boiling water is not recommended as it can affect the print quality and tensile strength.
Humidity and moisture absorption can significantly impact the longevity of PLA plastic. In high-humidity environments, the filament can become useless within a few days due to moisture saturation. Therefore, it is recommended to store PLA in a moisture-free environment when not in use.
Yes, the colour of PLA plastic can impact its longevity. Pure white PLA tends to last longer, while coloured PLA may not last beyond 3-5 years. This is because certain dyes can change the mechanical properties and affect the quality of the filament.
