What Is Matte PLA and How Does It Differ from Standard PLA?

In the realm of 3D printing, PLA (Polylactic Acid) stands out as a favored filament due to its user-friendly nature and eco-friendliness. Among its variants, matte PLA has garnered attention for its unique aesthetic and performance characteristics. This article delves into what matte PLA is and how it contrasts with standard PLA.

Understanding PLA

PLA is a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. It boasts a low melting point, typically between 180°C and 220°C, making it easy to print with minimal warping. Its low shrinkage rate and minimal warping contribute to improved dimensional accuracy and better adhesion to the print bed

Common Applications of Standard PLA:

• Prototyping

• Educational models

• Decorative items

• Toys and figurines

Advantages of Using PLA:

• Biodegradable and environmentally friendly

• Low printing temperature requirements

• Minimal warping and shrinkage

• Wide availability in various colors and finishes

What is Matte PLA?

Matte PLA is a specialized form of PLA filament engineered to produce a non-reflective, matte finish on printed objects. This effect is achieved by incorporating specific additives or fillers into the PLA base, which diffuse light and reduce the visibility of layer lines. The result is a smooth, professional-looking surface ideal for display models, prototypes, and artistic pieces .

Unique Characteristics of Matte PLA:

• Non-glossy, smooth surface finish

• Enhanced ability to hide layer lines

• Softer texture compared to standard PLA

Aesthetic Appeal:

The matte finish provides a more subdued and professional look, making it ideal for applications where visual appeal is paramount. In contrast, standard PLA typically has a glossy finish, which can make layer lines more noticeable.

Differences Between Matte PLA and Standard PLA

Finish and Appearance

• Matte PLA: Offers a subdued, non-glossy appearance that minimizes reflections and hides layer lines, enhancing the visual appeal of prints.

• Standard PLA: Typically has a glossy finish, making layer lines more noticeable and giving prints a shinier look.

Printing Characteristics

• Print Settings: Matte PLA may require slight adjustments in print settings, such as temperature and speed, to achieve optimal results. Recommended nozzle temperatures range from 190°C to 230°C, with bed temperatures between 50°C and 70°C .

• Behavior During Printing: Matte PLA can be more brittle than standard PLA due to the additives used to achieve the matte finish. This brittleness may affect layer adhesion and overall print strength .

Mechanical Properties

• Strength and Flexibility: Matte PLA generally exhibits lower bending strength compared to standard PLA. For example, matte PLA has a bending strength of approximately 53 MPa, whereas standard PLA boasts around 76 MPa .

• Durability: The reduced strength and increased brittleness make matte PLA less suitable for functional parts that require high durability.

Post-Processing

• Sanding and Finishing: Matte PLA's surface finish allows for easier sanding and finishing, as the non-glossy texture hides imperfections better. However, care must be taken during sanding to avoid overheating, which can damage the print .

• Painting: The matte surface provides an excellent base for painting, often requiring less priming compared to glossy surfaces.

Applications of Matte PLA

Matte PLA is particularly suited for projects where aesthetics are paramount. Its ability to hide layer lines and reduce glare makes it ideal for:

• Architectural models

• Artistic sculptures

• Display prototypes

• Cosplay props

• Photography accessories where light reflections are undesirable

In industries such as product design, education, and the arts, matte PLA is often preferred for creating visually appealing prototypes and models.

Enhance Your 3D Prints with Matte PLA

If you’re aiming to elevate the visual quality of your 3D prints, matte PLA is a fantastic material to try. With its smooth, non-reflective finish, matte PLA gives your prints a refined, professional look—perfect for display models, prototypes, or artistic pieces.

To get the best results, remember to fine-tune your print settings and store the filament properly to avoid brittleness.

Kingroon has just launched its own Matte PLA, now available at an incredibly affordable price—only $10.90 for 1kg. If you’ve been curious about matte PLA, now’s the perfect time to give it a go with one of the most budget-friendly options on the market.

Conclusion

Matte PLA offers a unique combination of aesthetic appeal and printability, making it a valuable addition to any 3D printing enthusiast's material repertoire. While it may not match the strength and durability of standard PLA, its superior finish and visual qualities make it ideal for projects where appearance is key.