Print in 3D and create prototypes, spare parts, quick and on-demand production, etc. in any shape or geometry. 3D filaments come in different plastic materials and with varying properties. PLA (polylactic acid) is a biodegradable polymer derived from non-GMO corn starch. This means that an item made of PLA will slowly start to decompose when exposed to moisture, and if dropped in the sea, it will dissolve completely after six months to two years. Compare this to conventional plastics, where degradation will take 500 to 1,000 years.

Although PLA will degrade in an exposed natural environment, it is important to point out that it is very robust when printed and used in any normal application. With PLA, it is easy to print large parts due to its thermal stability. It is stiff and hard, but also more brittle than some other compounds. This means that it may not be the best choice of material if the printed item will be exposed to repeated heavy bumps or sharp impacts.