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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between PLA and ABS?

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PLA (Polylactic Acid) and ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) are both thermoplastics used in 3D printing, but they have distinct differences and characteristics:

PLA:

  • Stronger and stiffer than ABS, but with poor heat resistance properties.
  • Derived from renewable sources and classified as a bioplastic.
  • Easier to print and does not warp as easily as ABS.
  • Low melting temperature and minimal warping.
  • Brittle, leading to parts with poor durability and impact resistance.
  • Ideal for quick prototyping and hobbyist applications.
  • Provides a glossy finish when printed.

ABS:

  • Weaker and less rigid than PLA, but tougher and lighter.
  • More durable, with approximately 25% lower weight and four times higher impact resistance compared to PLA.
  • Requires more effort to print due to its higher heat resistance and tendency to warp.
  • Has better ductility than PLA, making it a better choice for applications involving physical forces.
  • More resistant to corrosion compared to PLA.
  • Suitable for prototyping, final part production, and applications involving moving parts.
  • Provides a matte finish when printed.

In summary, PLA is an ideal choice for parts that will not encounter high amounts of physical force and do not require heat resistance. For parts that need to be stronger, more heat-resistant, and more flexible, ABS is preferable.

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  • What is the Difference Between PLA and ABS?
  • Comparative Table: PLA vs ABS

    • Comparative Table: PLA vs ABS

    Here is a table comparing the differences between PLA and ABS:

    Property PLA (Polylactic Acid) ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
    Origin Derived from renewable sources, classified as a bioplastic Made from petroleum products, not biodegradable
    Strength Has higher tensile strength More brittle, less impact resistance
    Flexibility More brittle Better impact resistance and elongation before breaking
    Heat Resistance Poor heat resistance, loses stiffness and strength at higher temperatures Heat deflection temperature is superior to PLA and nylon, but still not heat resistant
    Printing Easier to print, less prone to warping Requires higher temperatures and a heated bed for optimal printing
    Temperature Sensitivity Less sensitive to temperature changes, fewer problems with warping More sensitive to temperature changes, requires a heated bed
    Post-processing Cannot be vapor smoothed like ABS, requires hand sanding for optimal surface finish Can be vapor smoothed with solvents like acetone for a smooth and homogeneous finish
    Toxicity Safer and less toxic than ABS Slightly more toxic than PLA
    Uses Ideal for quick prototypes, detailed models, and educational purposes Better suited for applications that require impact resistance, durability, and long-term wear and tear

    In summary, PLA is more brittle and easier to print than ABS, but it has poor heat resistance and is mostly used for hobbyist and educational applications. ABS, on the other hand, is less brittle, more impact-resistant, and better suited for applications that require durability and long-term wear and tear.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.