About Our Products

Products sold on this site are either original or commercially licensed 3D files that are printed in the USA and either hand delivered in Anchorage Alaska or shipped directly all over the world.

What materials do we use to manufacture our products?

The term PLA plastic refers to Polylactic Acid (PLA), a biodegradable and eco-friendly plastic derived from renewable resources, such as corn starch, sugarcane, or tapioca roots. PLA is an alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics and is commonly used in various applications, especially in the packaging, food service, and medical industries.

Here are the key characteristics and features of PLA plastic:

1. Biodegradable:

• PLA plastic is considered biodegradable under industrial composting conditions. This means that it breaks down into natural elements like carbon dioxide and water over time when exposed to heat, moisture, and microorganisms.
• It is often seen as a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional plastics, which can take hundreds of years to degrade.

2. Made from Renewable Resources:

• PLA is made from plant-based materials, usually corn starch or sugarcane. These renewable resources are processed into lactic acid, which is then polymerized to form PLA plastic.

3. Applications:

• Packaging: PLA is commonly used in packaging materials, such as clear containers, food wrappers, and bottles, because of its clarity and ability to be molded into various shapes.
• Food Service: It's frequently used for disposable items like plates, cutlery, and straws, particularly for products marketed as eco-friendly.
• Medical: PLA is used in the production of medical products like sutures, drug delivery systems, and even biodegradable implants.
• 3D Printing: PLA is a popular filament material for 3D printing due to its ease of use, low melting temperature, and availability in various colors.

4. Properties:

• Strength and Flexibility: PLA is relatively strong but more brittle than petroleum-based plastics, making it less suitable for high-stress applications.
• Transparency: It is highly transparent, which makes it ideal for packaging that requires a clear view of the contents.
• Lower Melting Point: PLA has a relatively low melting point compared to other plastics like polyethylene, which makes it easier to process but limits its use in high-temperature environments.

5. Environmental Impact:

• PLA is considered more sustainable than conventional plastics because it reduces reliance on fossil fuels. However, it still requires specific conditions to biodegrade properly, which may not always be available in natural environments.
• Some critics point out that the production of PLA still requires energy and water, and the large-scale use of crops for plastic production may compete with food production or lead to other ecological concerns.

6. Limitations:

• Composting: While PLA is compostable in industrial composting facilities, it may not break down effectively in regular landfills or in the natural environment, where the necessary conditions for biodegradation aren't present.
• Durability: PLA is more susceptible to degradation from heat and moisture than traditional plastics, which limits its use in some high-performance applications.

In summary, PLA plastic is a more eco-conscious option for many applications, especially where biodegradability is important. However, its full environmental benefits depend on proper disposal and recycling systems, and it still faces challenges regarding production and durability.