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PLA vs ABS: A Comparison Guide

Austin Peng
Pubblicato 10 Feb 2025
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Every industry uses components made with different forms of materials, and the versatility of materials includes PLA and ABS as the two material options.

ABS and PLA have numerous applications, and when compared to one another, they have similarities as well as differences. The guide below features a thorough comparison between PLA vs ABS, so let's read.

What is PLA (Polylactic Acid)?

PLA is polylactic acid, which is a thermoplastic polyester in semi-crystalline form. It is a bioplastic manufactured using plant scratch.

The origin of PLA is two monomers– lactic acid and lactide. PLA is preferred for 3D printing due to the ease of printing and biodegradability it offers; it is also environmentally friendly.

What is ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)?

ABS is a thermoplastic polymer that has an amorphous form and an irregular molecular structure. It is manufactured by polymerizing acrylonitrile and styrene. It is a tough plastic and is used in applications requiring impact resistance.

PLA Comparison to ABS

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The advantages and disadvantages of PLA compared to ABS are as follows:

Advantages of PLA vs ABS

  • PLA is easier to print at low temperatures and doesn't warp. It doesn't even need any enclosure-built chamber or a heated bed.
  • PLA breaks down into by-products that are not toxic when subjected to the appropriate conditions.
  • PLA offers affordability compared to ABS.

Disadvantages of PLA vs ABS

  • PLA can crack easily as it has a brittle nature and cannot withstand impact.
  • PLA also cannot withstand UV exposure for a longer span.
  • The melting point of PLA is very low compared to ABS, and it is not suitable for use in high-temperature environments.

What’s the Difference Between PLA and ABS?

The difference between ABS and PLA is featured in the table below.

Proprietà PLA ABS
Densità 1.24 g/cm³ 1.04 g/cm³
Brittle Yes No
Punto di fusione 150–160°C 210–250°C
Resistenza alla trazione 50–70 MPa 30–50 MPa
Forza d'urto Basso Alto
Allungamento 6–10% 10–50%
Flexural Modulus 3,500–4,000 MPa 1,800–2,700 MPa
Biodegradable Yes No
Resistenza ai raggi UV Povero Moderato
Abrasion Resistant Povero Buono
Resistenza chimica Limited Buono
Glass Transition Temp. 55–60°C 100–110°C
Common Products Food packaging, 3D printing Automobile parts, electronic casings

Surface Finishes and Post-processing for PLA and ABS

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PLA and ABS, when manufactured, always have layers in the components. PLA has a glossy finish, whereas ABS has a matte finish.

ABS is turned smooth using acetone, and a glossy finish appears over it. Whereas sanding and additional processes of machining are also opted for ABS components. PLA can also be machined and sanded, but a lot of care is needed.

How Strong are PLA and ABS Parts?

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PLA and ABS possess identical tensile strength, which makes them suitable for most prototyping applications. Engineers and designers prefer opting for ABS as it is highly ductile.

ABS has better elongation and, hence, is suitable for various applications. PLA is mostly selected for rapid prototyping, in which function is not critical, but the form is.

PLA is a suitable option for custom components if a lot of physical stress is not exercised. ABS is suitable for industrial applications and handles physical strain better than PLA.

How Heat Resistant are PLA and ABS?

ABS offers high heat resistance compared to PLA. PLA ends up losing its structural integrity when submitted to high temperatures and deforms.

Alternative Materials to PLA and ABS

Plastic Materials

PETG stands for Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol as an alternative to ABS and PLA. It is between ABS and PLA. It has excellent mechanical properties like ABS and ease of printing like PLA.

Conclusione

ABS and PLA both are highly versatile materials and can be used in many applications. If you are inclined to have the components made using any of these components, get in touch with us at DEK.

We offer manufacturing of custom components using different materials and processes using our years of experience and expertise.

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Austin Peng
Cofondatore di DEK
AUTORE
Ciao a tutti! Sono Austin Peng. Gestisco una fabbrica specializzata nella lavorazione CNC, nello stampaggio a iniezione e nella fabbricazione di lamiere per la produzione di piccole quantità e soluzioni di prototipazione rapida. Quando non sono immerso nel lavoro, amo immergermi nelle partite di calcio, esplorare nuove destinazioni di viaggio, ascoltare musica e tenermi aggiornato sulle ultime tendenze tecnologiche. Sentitevi liberi di parlare con me di qualsiasi cosa, sia di lavoro che di vita!
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