What is PLA?
Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a biodegradable and bioactive thermoplastic aliphatic polyester derived from renewable biomass, typically from fermented plant starch such as from corn, cassava, sugarcane or sugar beet pulp. PLA is often used in various industries like packaging, medical devices, electronics, and more due to its clear and shiny appearance, high stiffness, and easy processability. It’s also popular in additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, due to its relatively low melting temperature.
End of life options for PLA include:
- Composting: PLA can be composted at industrial facilities, not typically in a home compost pile. It biodegrades under the right conditions of temperature, moisture, oxygen, and microbial activity.
- Incineration: PLA can be incinerated, producing water, carbon dioxide, and a small amount of residue, although this process does contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Recycling: PLA can be mechanically recycled, though not within the regular PET plastic streams as it has a lower melting point and can therefore contaminate the recycle stream.
- Chemical Recycling: PLA can be broken down to its constituent monomers in a process called hydrolysis.
- Landfill: Though not environmentally preferable, PLA can also be sent to landfill. It is worth noting that it degrades very slowly in such an environment, as landfills often lack the microorganisms and conditions needed for the PLA to decompose.
It is important to note that while PLA is a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastics, its end-of-life management still requires careful planning and proper infrastructure to ensure that its potential benefits are fully realized.