How To Fix Pla Filament Getting Brittle: Essential Tips For 3d Printing Success

By Author: Protomont technologies
Total Articles: 16
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PLA filament is a favorite among 3D printing enthusiasts due to its eco-friendliness, ease of use, and affordability. However, one common challenge users face is the brittleness that can develop over time, which leads to print failures and wasted material. This guide explores why PLA filament becomes brittle, how to prevent it, and solutions to restore its flexibility.

Why Does PLA Filament Become Brittle?

PLA, or polylactic acid, is a biodegradable thermoplastic made from renewable resources like cornstarch. While its environmental benefits are impressive, its sensitivity to external factors can lead to brittleness over time. The primary causes of PLA filament becoming brittle include:

Moisture Absorption: PLA is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. When exposed to humidity, the filament’s internal structure weakens, causing brittleness and breakage.
Heat Sensitivity: PLA has a relatively low melting point. Storing it in high-temperature environments or exposing it to heat during printing can make the filament brittle as it hardens after cooling.
UV Light Exposure: Prolonged ...
... exposure to sunlight or UV light weakens the chemical bonds in PLA, reducing flexibility and increasing brittleness.
Mechanical Stress: Mishandling, bending, or pulling the filament during loading or unloading can introduce micro-fractures that eventually cause breakage.
Quality of Filament: Lower-quality PLA filament often contains structural inconsistencies, making it more prone to becoming brittle.
How to Prevent PLA Filament from Becoming Brittle

To extend the lifespan of your PLA filament and maintain its printing quality, proper storage and handling are essential:

Store PLA Filament Properly: Use airtight containers with silica gel packets to absorb moisture. Store the filament in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and fluctuating temperatures.
Use a Filament Dryer: If you frequently print in humid environments, investing in a filament dryer will help remove excess moisture and prevent brittleness.
Handle with Care: Always load and unload the filament gently to avoid introducing stress points that can lead to cracks.
Use High-Quality Filament: Investing in a reputable brand of PLA filament ensures better durability and performance over time.
Fixing Brittle PLA Filament

If your filament has already become brittle, there are several solutions to restore its flexibility:

Dry the Filament: Use a food dehydrator or an oven set to a low temperature (around 45-50°C) to remove absorbed moisture. Monitor closely to prevent overheating.
Trim Brittle Sections: If only small sections are brittle, cut off the damaged parts to salvage the remaining filament.
Adjust Printing Settings: Increase the nozzle temperature slightly and reduce the fan speed to improve the filament’s flexibility during printing.
Try Silk PLA Filament for Enhanced Durability

Silk PLA filament is an excellent alternative if you’re looking for a stronger, more visually appealing finish. It offers the same ease of use as regular PLA but produces shinier and smoother prints, making it ideal for decorative projects while reducing brittleness issues.

By understanding the causes of PLA filament brittleness and applying these preventative measures, you can extend the life of your filament, reduce waste, and ensure higher-quality 3D prints.

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