---
type: "fiber"
name: "PLA"
slug: "pla"
fiber_type: "thermoplastic"
fiber_origin: "bio_based"
trade_names:
  - "Ingeo"
  - "Luminy"
url: "https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/pla"
updated: "2025-09-07T19:10:56.272849+00:00"
---

# PLA

Biodegradable biosynthetic fiber made from renewable plant resources like corn starch.

- **Fiber Type**: Thermoplastic
- **Origin**: Bio Based
- **Production Method**: Fermentation of plant starch to produce lactic acid, followed by polymerization to form PLA
- **Also Known As**: Polylactic Acid, Corn Fiber, Ingeo
- **Trade Names**: Ingeo, Luminy

## About PLA

PLA (Polylactic Acid) fiber is made from fermented plant starch, typically corn, sugar cane, or cassava. It is fully biodegradable under composting conditions and offers good moisture management and natural antimicrobial properties.

## Key Properties

- **Density**: 1.24 g/cm³
- **Fiber Diameter**: 20 µm
- **Fiber Length**: 38 mm
- **Linear Density**: 1.35 denier
- **Tensile Strength**: 50 MPa
- **Elongation at Break**: 6%
- **Moisture Regain**: 0.5%
- **Melting Point**: 150 °C
- **Heat Resistance**: 60 °C
- **Natural Color**: cream
- **Luster**: Semi Bright

## Performance Characteristics

- **Abrasion Resistance**: Fair
- **Pilling Resistance**: Good
- **Wrinkle Resistance**: Good
- **UV Resistance**: Good
- **Chemical Resistance**: Fair
- **Moisture Absorption**: Good
- **Wicking**: Fair
- **Breathability**: Good
- **Elastic Recovery**: Fair
- **Dimensional Stability**: Good
- **Dyeability**: Good

## Strengths

- Biodegradable
- Renewable source
- Moisture-wicking
- Antimicrobial

## Limitations

- Low heat resistance
- Limited stretch
- Higher cost

## Sustainability

- **Biodegradable**: Yes
- **Recyclable**: Yes
- **Renewable Source**: Yes
- **Bio-based Content**: 100%
- **Recycled Content**: 0%
- **Certifications**: GOTS, OEKO-TEX
- **Major Producers**: NatureWorks LLC, BASF, Total Corbion PLA

## Care

- **Max Wash Temperature**: 40 °C
- **Max Ironing Temperature**: 110 °C
- **Dry Cleaning**: Safe
- **Bleach Compatibility**: No Bleach

Avoid high temperatures during washing and drying.

## Common Applications

- Activewear
- Undergarments
- Disposable Textiles
- Nonwovens

## Common Uses in Detail

### Activewear and Undergarments

Its natural moisture-wicking properties and soft hand make PLA well-suited for next-to-skin apparel like athletic wear and undergarments. Being derived from renewable corn starch, it appeals to eco-conscious brands seeking biodegradable alternatives to conventional synthetic fibers.

### Medical Nonwovens

PLA's biodegradability and biocompatibility make it a strong candidate for single-use medical nonwovens such as surgical drapes and wound dressings. These disposable applications benefit from the fiber's ability to break [Down](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/down) naturally, reducing long-term medical waste impact.

## Similar Fibers

- [Nylon](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/nylon.md) — Thermoplastic
- [Polyester](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/polyester.md) — Thermoplastic

---
*Source: [Fabric Atlas](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/pla) — HTML version of this page.*