Products

Polylactic Acid (PLA)

Polylactic acid, commonly abbreviated as PLA and also known as polylactide, is a type of bio-based aliphatic polyester. Derived from renewable resources such as corn starch, sugarcane, and other plant-based materials, PLA is synthesized through a multi-step process. First, these natural resources are fermented to produce lactic acid. Then lactic acid is prepared into cyclic dimer lactide, which is polymerized to create high-molecular-weight PLA materials. As a biodegradable polymer, PLA stands out for its ability to decompose into natural components under specific conditions, making it a sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics. This unique combination of eco-friendliness and performance properties has propelled PLA into a wide range of applications, from packaging and textiles to agriculture and medical devices.

Fig. 1. The structure of PLA.

What We Offer

As a leading bio-based company, Alfa Chemistry specializes in developing and manufacturing a diverse range of high-quality polylactic acid (PLA) materials to meet the demands of various industries. Our product portfolio includes:

PLA Pellets

PLA pellets are the foundation for creating a variety of PLA-based products. With excellent thermal stability and mechanical properties, they are ideal for applications such as injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming. Our products include:

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PLA Fibers

Our PLA fibers are designed for use in textiles and nonwoven applications. They offer a soft, skin-friendly touch and natural antibacterial properties, making them suitable for sustainable clothing, hygiene products, and medical fabrics.

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PLA Related Microspheres

PLA related microspheres are specially engineered for applications requiring precision and performance, such as drug delivery systems, cosmetics, and aesthetic medicine. Our products include:

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Characteristics of PLA

Renewable Resource-Based: Unlike conventional plastics, PLA is derived from renewable feedstocks such as corn, sugarcane, and cassava, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions during production.
Biodegradability: PLA is fully biodegradable under industrial composting conditions. It decomposes into natural components like water and carbon dioxide, reducing its impact on landfills and marine ecosystems.

Fig. 2. PLA lifecycle. Fig.2. The Life cycle of PLA. ( Peng, T. and Sun W., 2017)

Mechanical Strength and Versatility: PLA exhibits excellent mechanical properties, including good tensile strength and rigidity. It can be processed using traditional plastic manufacturing techniques, such as injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming.
Transparency and Appearance: PLA can achieve a clear, glossy appearance, making it ideal for applications requiring aesthetic appeal, such as packaging.
Food Safety: PLA is recognized as safe for food-contact applications, complying with FDA and European standards for food packaging.

Applications of PLA

PLA's diverse properties have opened up numerous applications across different sectors, including:

Packaging Industry: PLA is widely used in the packaging industry to create biodegradable containers, cups, lids, and films. These products help reduce plastic waste and align with consumer preferences for eco-friendly packaging.
Textiles and Nonwoven Fabrics: PLA fibers are gaining popularity in the textile industry for producing sustainable clothing, nonwoven fabrics, and hygiene products such as diapers and facial wipes. These materials offer a soft touch and are skin-friendly, making them suitable for personal care applications.
Agriculture: In agriculture, PLA is used for producing biodegradable mulch films, plant pots, and seed trays. These products break down naturally in the soil, eliminating the need for collection and disposal.
Medical and Healthcare: PLA is utilized in the medical field for creating sutures, implants, and drug delivery systems. Moreover, Its biocompatibility and ability to degrade safely in the body make it an ideal material for temporary medical devices and aesthetic medicine.
3D Printing: PLA has become one of the most popular materials for 3D printing due to its ease of use, low melting point, and environmentally friendly properties. It is widely used for prototyping and creating functional parts.
Disposable Products: PLA's biodegradability makes it suitable for disposable items such as cutlery, straws, plates, and takeaway containers, offering a sustainable alternative to single-use plastics.