How Long Does PLA Last Outside? Does It Expire? [2024] 🌞

Video: How does 3D printed PLA hold up outside in the sun?

Have you ever wondered how long PLA filament lasts when used outdoors? Does it have an expiration date? As 3D printing enthusiasts at 3D Printed™, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of PLA filament and explore its lifespan when exposed to the elements. Get ready to discover the answers to all your burning questions about PLA filament and outdoor use!

Quick Answer

Quick Tips and Facts
Background: What is PLA Made Of?
Does PLA Filament Go Bad?

Factors that Affect PLA Filament Life
How Long Do PLA Prints Last?
How Long Does PLA Last After Printing?

how to Store PLA Filament
Does Other 3D Filament Expire?
How Long Does 3D Printer Filament Last?

FAQ
Conclusion
Recommended Links

Reference Links

Quick Answer

✅ PLA filament can last a few months to 1 year when used outside. However, it is important to note that PLA is not UV resistant and will degrade over time when exposed to sunlight. To maximize the lifespan of your PLA prints, it is crucial to store them properly and protect them from the elements.

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Quick Tips and Facts

PLA filament can last for 12 to 18 years when used indoors under normal room temperature conditions.
PLA is a biodegradable filament made from cornstarch and other renewable materials.
PLA filament does not have an expiration date, but its lifespan can be affected by storage conditions.

Factors that can affect the life of PLA filament include moisture, mechanical stress, and filament quality.
PLA prints can last for more than 15 years if stored properly.
PLA filament is not suitable for outdoor use without proper protection or post-processing.

Now that we’ve covered the quick answer, let’s dive deeper into the world of PLA filament and explore its lifespan when used outdoors.

Background: What is PLA Made Of?

Scattered sheets of white paper covering the entire frame

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a popular filament material used in 3D printing. It is derived from renewable resources such as cornstarch, sugarcane, or tapioca roots. PLA is known for its ease of use, low odor, and biodegradability. It is one of the most commonly used filaments in the 3D printing community due to its wide availability and versatility.

Does PLA Filament Go Bad?

Video: How to quickly check if you PLA filament is wet.

PLA filament does not have an expiration date like food or medicine. However, its quality and performance can degrade over time, especially when exposed to certain environmental conditions. While PLA is generally more stable than other filaments, it is still susceptible to degradation when exposed to moisture, heat, and UV light.

Factors that Affect PLA Filament Life

Video: Can you leave 3D Prints outside? PLA in the sun for a year!

Several factors can affect the lifespan of PLA filament, both before and after printing. Here are some key factors to consider:

Moisture: PLA filament is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the surrounding environment. Moisture can lead to filament degradation and poor print quality. It is important to store PLA filament in a dry environment and use desiccants or airtight containers to minimize moisture absorption.
Mechanical Stress: PLA filament can become brittle and prone to breaking under mechanical stress. This can occur during printing or when handling printed objects. Avoid applying excessive force or bending to prevent damage to your PLA prints.

Filament Quality: The quality of the PLA filament itself can also impact its lifespan. Higher-quality filaments are often more resistant to degradation and offer better print results. It is recommended to choose reputable brands and suppliers when purchasing PLA filament.

How Long Do PLA Prints Last?

Video: How long does 3D Printed PLA last?

The lifespan of PLA prints can vary depending on various factors, including the quality of the filament, the printing settings, and the post-processing techniques used. In general, well-printed PLA objects can last for many years, even decades, when properly cared for and stored.

How Long Does PLA Last After Printing?

Video: Do Pla Printed Parts Last?

Once a PLA print is completed, its lifespan can be influenced by the same factors that affect PLA filament. However, with proper care and storage, PLA prints can last for more than 15 years. It is important to protect PLA prints from moisture, heat, and UV light to prevent degradation over time.

How to Store PLA Filament

Video: This is the best way to store 3d Printer Filament.

To maximize the lifespan of your PLA filament and prints, it is crucial to store them properly. Here are some tips for storing PLA filament:

Sealed Container: Store PLA filament in an airtight container to protect it from moisture and dust. Use desiccants, such as silica gel packs, to absorb any moisture that may be present.
Cool and Dry Environment: Store PLA filament in a cool and dry environment, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. High temperatures can cause filament deformation and degradation.

Avoid Humidity: Moisture is one of the main enemies of PLA filament. Avoid storing filament in humid areas, such as basements or bathrooms, as it can lead to filament degradation and poor print quality.
Avoid UV Exposure: PLA filament is not UV resistant and will degrade when exposed to sunlight. Keep filament away from direct sunlight or use UV-resistant coatings or post-processing techniques to protect your prints.

Does Other 3D Filament Expire?

Video: Why Does My PLA Filament Keep Breaking?

While PLA filament is known for its biodegradability and susceptibility to degradation, other filaments such as ABS and PETG are generally more resistant to environmental factors. ABS and PETG filaments can last longer than PLA when exposed to the same conditions. However, it is still important to store all types of filaments properly to maintain their quality and performance.

How Long Does 3D Printer Filament Last?

Video: 3 Years Later: Exposure testing 3D printing filaments outdoors.

The lifespan of 3D printer filament can vary depending on the type of filament, storage conditions, and usage. In general, well-stored filaments can last for several years, while poorly stored filaments may degrade within a few months. It is important to follow proper storage guidelines and handle filaments with care to ensure their longevity.

FAQ

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Can PLA survive outside??

PLA filament is not suitable for prolonged outdoor use without proper protection or post-processing. It is not UV resistant and will degrade when exposed to sunlight. If you plan to use PLA prints outdoors, consider applying a UV-resistant coating or using other post-processing techniques to protect them from the elements.

Does PLA degrade in sunlight??

Yes, PLA filament degrades when exposed to sunlight due to its lack of UV resistance. The degradation process can lead to color fading, brittleness, and overall deterioration of the material. To prevent this, it is important to protect PLA prints from direct sunlight or use UV-resistant coatings.

How quickly does PLA degrade?

The degradation rate of PLA filament can vary depending on the specific environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and UV exposure. In general, PLA can start to show signs of degradation after a few months to a year when exposed to outdoor conditions. Proper storage and protection can help prolong its lifespan.

Does PLA degrade in nature??

PLA is considered biodegradable and can degrade in certain natural environments, such as composting facilities or industrial composters. However, it is important to note that PLA requires specific conditions, including high temperatures and microbial activity, to biodegrade effectively. PLA will not degrade significantly when left in natural environments such as soil or water.

Conclusion

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In conclusion, PLA filament can last a few months to 1 year when used outside. However, it is important to note that PLA is not UV resistant and will degrade over time when exposed to sunlight. To maximize the lifespan of your PLA prints, store them in a sealed container with desiccants, away from direct heat and sunlight. Proper storage and protection are key to preserving the quality and longevity of your PLA filament and prints.

Remember, PLA is just one type of filament available for 3D printing. If you’re looking for filaments with different properties or longer lifespans, consider exploring other options such as ABS or PETG.

We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights into the lifespan of PLA filament when used outdoors. Happy printing!