How Long Does PLA Filament Last?

So how long will PLA filament actually last? While PLA is one of the material choices for 3D printing, there can be a variation in life based on storage conditions and environmental exposure. Under standard room conditions and proper dry storage conditions, PLA filament can last for years: the range is typically between 12 years to 18 months. Once printed, however, the degradation of PLA objects generally depends on the external factors of moisture, heat, and mechanical stress. The article will also address the lifespan of PLA filament and the means to ensure its extended life. 

What Is PLA Made Of?

PLA is made from Polylactic Acid, and this is a biodegradable thermoplastic obtained from renewable resources like cornstarch, sugarcane, or tapioca, Thus with these environmental-friendly properties, it is one among the most-widely-used materials in 3D printing. The suitability of PLA materials for 3D printing is dependent mostly on its time of storage. Time that may not reflect any expiry date but could terribly deter its printability, if the material has been subjected to improper storage conditions. 

Does PLA Filament Expire?

Unlike food, PLA does not have a hard-and-fast expiration date. Nevertheless, the exposure of PLA filament to humid environments, direct sunlight, and extreme temperature conditions may degrade it over a long time. Consequently, the filament becomes brittle and poor in extrusion quality, leading to print failure. Generally speaking, good-quality PLA filaments survive longer, especially if they are kept in a vacuum bag together with desiccants. 

Factors That Affect PLA Filament Lifespan

1. Moisture Exposure PLA absorbs moisture from the air, causing brittleness to the filament and poor extrusion. Proper storage in airtight containers with silica gel can be used to alleviate this problem.
2. Mechanical Stress Continuous unwinding and poor handling of spool filaments can lead to stress fractures, which in reality are pre-cursors for filament snapping.
3. Filament Quality Better-grade PLA filament made from quality material.

A Survey on the Lifespan of PLA Filament in Different Conditions

How Long Does PLA Last After Opening?

When opened, a PLA filament would last for over 15 years if kept in a sealed desiccated container away from any direct sunlight and at a stable temperature (10-40°C). On the other hand, if kept exposed to direct sunlight and humidity, its lifespan could be reduced to just a few months or even weeks!

How Long Does PLA Last After Printing? 

PLA things, when printed, have an indefinite lifespan indoors if controlled conditions are adhered to. Some reports came in saying that PLA prints remain intact for over 15 years if unaffected by moisture or high temperatures.

How Long Does PLA Last in Water? 

PLA is not water-resistant and eventually absorbs moisture. While it does not dissolve in water, it maybe breaking down in humid conditions. Under normal conditions, PLA submerged in water could break down anywhere from 47 to 90 days when warm water and microorganisms are present. 

How Long Does PLA Last When in the Open? 

PLA is not UV-resistant; thus, sunshine and outdoor exposure cut down its lifespan significantly. The biodegrading process may start as soon as a few months after the printing, and it may become brittle within a year. To some extent, this process can be slowed down if coatings such as UV-resistant sprays and protective paints are applied.

Conclusion

It is an understanding of how long does PLA filament last that helps to maximize its potential for 3D printing. Proper storage in airtight containers away from humidity and direct sunlight is fundamental to maintaining filament quality. Indoor PLA prints can last for years; however, exposure to the outdoor environment and to water greatly reduces that lifespan. Using all the right precautions guarantees the best possible condition for both filament and prints.