3D printing has given rise to a variety of materials, each with their own unique properties and applications. In this blog post, we take a look at some of the most common materials: PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, PVA, nylon and PC. We examine their advantages and disadvantages, environmental compatibility, weather resistance and uses.
PLA (Polylactide)
Advantages:
- Easy to print
- Biodegradable and environmentally friendly
- Low shrinkage and deformation
Disadvantages:
- Low heat resistance (can soften at high temperatures)
- Relatively brittle compared to other materials
Environmentally friendly: PLA is made from renewable resources such as corn starch and is biodegradable, making it one of the most environmentally friendly 3D printing materials.
Weather resistance: Not particularly weather-resistant, especially susceptible to high temperatures and moisture.
Applications: Ideal for prototypes, decorative objects and applications where mechanical stress is not a major factor.
PETG (Polyethylenterephthalat Glykol)
Advantages:
- Good impact resistance and toughness
- Little deformation during printing
- Resistant to chemicals and moisture
Disadvantages:
- More difficult to print than PLA (requires higher printing temperatures)
Environmental compatibility: PETG is recyclable but not biodegradable.
Weather resistance: Very weather-resistant and well suited for outdoor applications.
Intended use: Suitable for mechanically stressed parts, housings and functional prototypes.
ABS (Acrylnitril-Butadien-Styrol)
Advantages:
- High impact resistance and toughness
- Good heat resistance
- Easy to process (sanding, drilling, gluing)
Disadvantages:
- Difficult to print (requires high temperatures and closed printing chambers)
- Tends to shrink and deform
- Strong odor during printing
Environmental compatibility: Non-biodegradable and environmentally friendly, but recyclable.
Weather resistance: Relatively weather-resistant, but UV light can weaken the material over time.
Intended use: Ideal for functional prototypes, components and housings.
TPU (Thermoplastisches Polyurethan)
Advantages:
- High flexibility and elasticity
- Good abrasion resistance
- Resistant to oils and greases
Disadvantages:
- More difficult to print (requires special print settings)
- Longer printing times
Environmental compatibility: Not biodegradable, but recyclable.
Weather resistance: Good weather resistance, suitable for outdoor applications.
Intended use: Ideal for flexible parts, seals and impact-resistant housings.
PVA (Polyvinylalkohol)
Advantages:
- Water-soluble (ideal as support material)
- Biodegradable
Disadvantages:
- Sensitive to moisture
- More difficult to print than PLA and ABS
Environmental compatibility: Biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Weather resistance: Not weather-resistant; dissolves on contact with water.
Intended use: Mainly used as support material for complex prints.
Nylon
Advantages:
- Very strong and durable
- Good flexibility
- Resistant to abrasion and chemicals
Disadvantages:
- Moisture-sensitive (must be dried before printing)
- More difficult to print (requires high temperatures)
Environmental compatibility: Not biodegradable, but recyclable.
Weather resistance: Good weather resistance, but moisture can affect the mechanical properties.
Intended use: Suitable for highly stressed parts, gear wheels and functional prototypes.
PC (Polycarbonat)
Advantages:
- Very strong and durable
- High heat resistance
- Good impact resistance
Disadvantages:
- Very difficult to print (requires high temperatures and a closed pressure chamber)
- Sensitive to moisture
Environmental compatibility: Not biodegradable, but recyclable.
Weather resistance: Good weather resistance, but UV light can weaken the material over time.
Intended use: Ideal for highly stressed parts, electronic housings and mechanical components.
With this information, you have a comprehensive overview of the most common materials used in 3D printing. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right material depends on the specific requirements of your project. What experience have you already had with these materials?
Do you need help choosing the right material for your project? Then fell free to contact us !