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PLA

The best adhesive for PLA is typically Heat-Resistant Epoxy, with good bond strength. As a plastic material, PLA has unique bonding characteristics that require specific adhesive selection. Common applications include 3d-printing,packaging,disposables.

Bonding PLA requires understanding its unique surface properties and chemical characteristics. As a plastic material, PLA presents specific challenges that can be overcome with the right adhesive selection and proper surface preparation techniques. This comprehensive guide provides expert recommendations, bond strength data, and step-by-step instructions to achieve strong, durable bonds with PLA.

Material Properties & Characteristics

PLA exhibits medium surface energy, which allows for good adhesion when proper surface preparation is performed. The none nature of PLA presents bonding considerations that depend on surface preparation and adhesive selection. As a rigid material, PLA benefits from rigid adhesives that provide maximum structural strength and dimensional stability. The low chemical resistance of PLA requires adhesives compatible with its chemical composition and environmental exposure conditions. Understanding these fundamental properties is essential for selecting the appropriate adhesive and surface preparation method.

Surface Preparation Best Practices

Achieving strong, durable bonds with PLA depends heavily on proper surface preparation. Begin by cleaning all bonding surfaces with appropriate cleaners to remove dirt, oils, and surface contaminants. Ensure surfaces are at room temperature (15-25°C or 60-80°F) for optimal bonding conditions. Temperature extremes can affect adhesive flow, wetting, and cure times. Apply adhesive within minutes of surface preparation to prevent recontamination from dust, moisture, or oils. Proper surface preparation significantly improves bond strength, durability, and long-term performance.

Surface Preparation Guide

Proper surface preparation is critical for achieving strong, durable bonds with PLA. Follow these steps:

  1. Clean with soap and water or degreaser to remove dirt and oils
  2. Dry thoroughly before applying adhesive
  3. Ensure surfaces are at room temperature (60-80°F) for optimal bonding
  4. Apply adhesive within minutes of surface preparation for best results

Basic Information

Category

plastic

Surface Energy

medium

Surface Type

non-porous

Flexibility

rigid

Porosity

none

Chemical Resistance

low

Chemical Information

CAS Number

9051-89-2

Trade Names

NatureWorks

Aliases

polylactic acid,polylactide

Chemical Composition

  • polylactic acid (100%)

Common Uses

3d-printing,packaging,disposables

Best Adhesives for PLA

Heat-Resistant Epoxygood

Strength: 1500 PSI

High-Strength Epoxygood

Strength: 1500 PSI

Marine Epoxygood

Strength: 1500 PSI

Fiber-Reinforced Epoxygood

Strength: 1500 PSI

Chemical-Resistant Epoxygood

Strength: 1500 PSI

Flexible Epoxygood

Strength: 1500 PSI

Two-Part Epoxygood

Strength: 1500 PSI

Five-Minute Epoxygood

Strength: 1500 PSI

Clear Epoxy Resingood

Strength: 1500 PSI

Underwater Epoxygood

Strength: 1500 PSI