Polylactic acid (PLA) fiber is synthesized from agricultural products rich in starch, such as corn, wheat, and sugar beets. Through fermentation, lactic acid is produced, which is then polymerized and melt-spun into fibers. PLA fiber is a synthetic material derived from renewable, easily cultivable crops, and its waste products are fully biodegradable in nature. Under microbial action in soil or seawater, PLA breaks down into carbon dioxide and water. When incinerated, it does not emit toxic fumes or cause pollution, making it an eco-friendly, sustainable fiber. Fabrics made from PLA exhibit excellent drape, a soft hand feel, UV resistance, low flammability, and superior processability, making them suitable for fashion, casualwear, sports apparel, hygiene products, and more—demonstrating broad application potential.
Since PLA fiber is derived from lactic acid obtained from corn starch, it is also called "corn fiber." Alternatively, lactic acid can be produced via glucose fermentation from sugar beets or grains to reduce production costs for lactic acid polymers. High-molecular-weight PLA can be synthesized through chemical polymerization of lactide (lactic acid cyclic dimer) or direct polymerization of lactic acid. Products made from PLA exhibit excellent biocompatibility, bioabsorbability, antibacterial properties, and flame retardancy. Among biodegradable thermoplastic polymers, PLA boasts the highest heat resistance.
PLA fibers share physical properties similar to PET fibers (polyester), including high crystallinity and transparency. Due to their high crystallinity and orientation, PLA fibers offer exceptional heat resistance and strength without requiring specialized equipment or processing techniques—standard spinning methods suffice.
Raw materials for PLA production, such as sugar beets and corn, are abundant and renewable through cultivation. Unlike petroleum or wood-based materials, PLA production helps conserve finite fossil fuel and forest resources. The primary feedstock for PLA is lactic acid (α-hydroxypropionic acid or 2-hydroxypropionic acid). As lactic acid contains an asymmetric carbon atom, it exists in two enantiomeric forms: D-lactic acid (dextrorotatory) and L-lactic acid (levorotatory). An equal mixture of both yields optically inactive DL-lactic acid. Fiber-grade PLA typically uses L-lactic acid as the monomer.
PLA fibers are fully biodegradable, decomposing naturally into CO₂ and H₂O after disposal. These compounds can then be converted back into starch—the source material for lactic acid—via photosynthesis. When buried with organic waste, PLA fibers decompose completely within months, breaking down into CO₂ and H₂O.
Among all biodegradable polymers, PLA possesses the highest melting point, high crystallinity, and excellent transparency, making it ideal for fibers, films, and molded products. Its physical properties closely resemble PET (polyester) and PA (nylon) fibers, while its dyeability surpasses PET.
PLA is a critical component in fully biodegradable materials. If you require PLA pellets or for finished product formulations, LEEKA biodegradables is your most professional and trusted source.
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