What are the main types of plastic used in 3D printing?

What Are the Main Types of Plastic Used in 3D Printing?

1. Polylactic Acid (PLA)

PLA is one of the most widely used thermoplastics in FDM/FFF 3D printing. Derived from renewable resources like corn starch, it offers ease of printing, low warping, and good surface finish.

Key Features:

• Low-cost, biodegradable

• Ideal for visual prototypes, education, and concept models

• Limited heat and mechanical resistance

Applications: Display models, form-fit testing, low-stress consumer parts

2. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

ABS is a durable thermoplastic known for impact resistance and toughness. It requires a heated bed and enclosed chamber due to warping.

Key Features:

• High strength and thermal stability

• Can be post-processed with vapor smoothing

• Emitted fumes require ventilation

Applications: Automotive housings, functional prototypes, enclosures

3. Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG)

PETG combines the strength of ABS with the printability of PLA, offering high durability and chemical resistance.

Key Features:

• Easy to print with minimal warping

• Excellent layer adhesion

• Food-safe variants available

Applications: Mechanical parts, bottles, containers, custom jigs

4. Nylon (PA)

Nylon (PA) is a strong, flexible engineering-grade polymer widely used in SLS and MJF 3D printing.

Key Features:

• High impact and fatigue resistance

• Wear-resistant and low friction

• Sensitive to moisture absorption

Applications: Gears, hinges, structural parts, snap-fit components

5. Polycarbonate (PC)

Polycarbonate (PC) is known for high heat resistance and strength, but it requires high extrusion temperatures and precise environmental control.

Key Features:

• Stronger than ABS and PETG

• Excellent dimensional stability

• Sensitive to humidity

Applications: Tooling, light diffusers, machine parts

6. Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)

TPU is a flexible material with rubber-like properties, used in wearables and soft-touch applications.

Key Features:

• High elasticity and impact absorption

• Good chemical and abrasion resistance

• Requires slower print speeds

Applications: Seals, gaskets, insoles, shock-absorbing parts

7. Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK)

PEEK is a high-performance thermoplastic used in demanding applications where strength, heat resistance, and chemical stability are critical.

Key Features:

• Withstands temperatures >250°C

• Biocompatible and sterilizable

• Requires specialized high-temp printers

Applications: Medical implants, aerospace parts, industrial components

8. Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)

PMMA, or acrylic, is used when optical clarity and rigidity are needed.

Key Features:

• Transparent and UV-resistant

• Good aesthetic quality

• Brittle under impact

Applications: Light covers, signage, display elements

Recommended Plastic 3D Printing Services

Neway offers full-service Plastic 3D Printing solutions:

• PLA, ABS, PETG: For FDM low-cost prototyping

• Nylon (PA), TPU: For functional components

• PC, PEEK: For high-performance industrial parts

• PMMA, ASA: For outdoor and optical applications