Is PETG Better Than PLA+?

Is PETG Better Than PLA+?
When it comes to 3D printing, choosing the right filament can significantly impact the quality and durability of your prints. Two popular choices among hobbyists and professionals alike are PETG and PLA+. Both materials have unique properties that make them suitable for different applications. In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between PETG and PLA+, their advantages and disadvantages, and help you decide which filament might be better for your specific needs.
What is PETG?
PETG, or Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol, is a modified version of PET, which is commonly used for making plastic bottles. The addition of glycol makes PETG more flexible and less brittle, enhancing its durability and impact resistance. PETG is known for its strength, chemical resistance, and ability to produce smooth, glossy prints.
Manufacturing Process:
●Polymerization: PETG is manufactured through the polymerization of ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid. The glycol modification reduces the brittleness and improves the material's flexibility.
●Extrusion: After polymerization, the material is extruded into filament form, where it is cooled and spooled for use in 3D printers.
Chemical Composition of PETG:
●Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET): Provides the fundamental properties of rigidity and strength in PETG.
●Glycol (G): Added to modify PET, improving flexibility and reducing brittleness.
Benefits of PETG:
●Strength and Durability: Retains the inherent strength and durability of PET.
●Flexibility: Increased flexibility reduces the likelihood of brittleness and cracking.
●Ease of Use: Suitable for 3D printing, offering good layer adhesion and resistance to warping.
●Chemical Resistance: Exhibits good chemical resistance, making it suitable for a variety of applications, including those involving exposure to chemicals and solvents.
Key Features of PETG:
●Strength and Durability: PETG is known for its toughness and ability to withstand significant mechanical stress. Its enhanced flexibility further reduces the risk of cracking or shattering, making it ideal for functional parts that require resilience.
●Chemical Resistance: PETG is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, alkalis, and oils. This makes it suitable for applications that involve exposure to harsh environments, such as chemical containers or parts used in industrial settings.
●Transparency: PETG can be printed with a high degree of transparency, making it suitable for aesthetic applications like light covers, display cases, and other clear objects. This property adds versatility, especially for projects where visual appeal is important.
●Ease of Printing: Although PETG requires a heated bed (typically around 70-90°C) and a higher nozzle temperature (around 230-250°C), it is relatively easy to print with. It adheres well to the print bed and is less prone to warping compared to other filaments.
●UV and Weather Resistance: PETG maintains its properties better than PLA+ when exposed to UV light and varying weather conditions. This makes it a good choice for outdoor applications where durability against the elements is required.
What is PLA+?
PLA+, or Polylactic Acid Plus, is an enhanced version of standard PLA filament. PLA is a biodegradable plastic made from renewable resources like cornstarch or sugarcane. The formulation of PLA+ is a trade secret, and different companies have their own recipes. As a result, various PLA+ brands exhibit different properties. PLA+ includes additional ingredients to improve its mechanical properties, making it tougher and less brittle than regular PLA.
Manufacturing Process:
●Fermentation: Produced through the fermentation of plant sugars derived from corn, sugarcane, or other biomass, resulting in lactic acid.
●Polymerization: Lactic acid is then polymerized to form polylactic acid, with additional additives included to enhance its properties.
Chemical Composition of PLA+:
●Polylactic Acid (PLA): Primary component derived from renewable resources.
●Additional Enhancers: Include toughness enhancers, impact resistance additives, and flexibility modifiers.
Key Features of PLA+:
●Ease of Use: One of the easiest filaments to print with, ideal for beginners. Does not require a heated bed and prints at lower temperatures (around 190-220°C). Its low melting point and minimal warping make it user-friendly for both novice and experienced 3D printing enthusiasts.
●Detail and Accuracy: PLA+ can produce high-quality prints with fine details, making it suitable for prototypes, models, decorative items, and intricate designs. Its ability to print sharp corners and intricate features makes it a favorite for artistic and detailed projects.
●Biodegradability: Made from renewable resources, PLA+ is biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly option compared to other plastics. This is particularly important for makers concerned about the environmental impact of their 3D prints.
●Enhanced Toughness: PLA+ is more durable than standard PLA, offering better impact resistance and flexibility. This makes it more suitable for functional parts that require a bit more strength and resilience than what regular PLA offers.
●Wide Color Range: Available in various colors and finishes, including matte, glossy, and even silk finishes. This variety allows for creative and aesthetically pleasing prints, adding to the versatility of PLA+ for different projects.
PETG is Cheaper than PLA+
One of the notable differences between PETG and PLA+ is their cost. PETG is generally cheaper than PLA+, making it a cost-effective option for those on a budget. Several factors contribute to this cost difference:
●Material Composition: PETG's raw materials are often less expensive and more readily available compared to the specialized additives and formulations used in PLA+.
●Manufacturing Process: The production process for PETG is well-established and optimized for efficiency, leading to lower production costs.
●Market Demand: PETG's versatility and widespread use in various industries contribute to economies of scale, further driving down the cost.
This cost advantage makes PETG an attractive choice for large projects or for those who need to produce many prints without breaking the bank.
The Formulation of PLA+ is a Trade Secret
The formulation of PLA+ is a closely guarded trade secret, and different companies have their own proprietary recipes. As a result, various PLA+ brands can exhibit different properties. This variability means that one brand's PLA+ might have different mechanical properties, printability, or color options compared to another. When choosing PLA+, it's important to consider the specific characteristics offered by the brand you select.

Comparing PETG and PLA+
Property PLA+ PETG
Tensile Strength 50-70 MPa 50-80 MPa
Elongation at Break 6-10% 20-40%
Young's Modulus (Elastic Modulus) 2-3 GPa 2-2.5 GPa
Impact Strength (Notched Izod) 2-6 kJ/m² 5-15 kJ/m²
Glass Transition Temperature (Tg) 60°C 80°C
Density 1.25 g/cm³ 1.27 g/cm³
Hardness (Shore D) 75-80 70-75
Melting Temperature 150-160°C 230-250°C
Printing Temperature 190-220°C 220-250°C
Bed Temperature 20-60°C 70-90°C

Comparing PETG and PLA+Strength and Durability
PETG is generally stronger and more durable than PLA+. It offers better impact resistance and is less likely to break under stress. The enhanced flexibility of PETG reduces the likelihood of brittleness and cracking, making it suitable for functional parts that require toughness. PETG's resilience under mechanical wear and tear makes it ideal for industrial applications, mechanical components, and parts that must endure significant physical stress.
Print Quality and Ease of Use
PLA+ is easier to print with and produces high-quality prints with excellent detail. It doesn’t require a heated bed and can be printed at lower temperatures. If ease of use and print quality are your primary concerns, PLA+ is a great option. Its user-friendly properties make it a popular choice for beginners and for projects where intricate details and sharp corners are essential.
Environmental Impact
PLA+ is biodegradable and made from renewable resources, making it a more environmentally friendly choice compared to PETG, which is not biodegradable. This eco-friendly aspect is particularly appealing to makers who prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility in their 3D printing projects.
Chemical Resistance
PETG offers superior chemical resistance, making it suitable for parts that need to withstand exposure to various chemicals. PLA+ lacks this level of chemical resistance, which can limit its use in environments where exposure to harsh chemicals is a factor.
Cost
PETG is often cheaper than PLA+, making it a cost-effective option for those on a budget. This affordability allows for extensive experimentation and large-scale projects without incurring high costs.
Printing PETG and PLA+ Together
While PETG and PLA+ have different printing temperatures and properties, it is possible to print them together in the same object using a dual-extrusion 3D printer. Considerations include balancing temperature settings, ensuring good adhesion, and adjusting print speed for optimal results.

Applications of PETG and PLA+
PETG Applications
PETG is highly versatile and is used in various industries due to its durability, chemical resistance, and clarity. Some common applications include:
●Mechanical Parts: PETG's toughness makes it ideal for parts that must endure mechanical stress, such as gears, brackets, and enclosures.
●Containers and Bottles: Due to its chemical resistance, PETG is suitable for making containers that store liquids, including chemicals and solvents.
●Outdoor Equipment: PETG's UV resistance and durability make it perfect for items exposed to the elements, such as garden tools and outdoor enclosures.
●Medical Equipment: PETG is often used in medical applications due to its strength and ability to be sterilized, making it suitable for medical device components.
PLA+ Applications
PLA+ is favored for applications that require ease of use, high detail, and environmental friendliness. Some common applications include:
●Prototyping: PLA+ is excellent for creating detailed prototypes and models due to its high print quality and ease of use.
●Artistic Projects: The wide range of colors and finishes available for PLA+ makes it popular for artistic and decorative items.
●Educational Models: PLA+ is often used in educational settings for creating models and teaching aids because it is easy to print with and safe to use.
●Consumer Products: PLA+ is used for various consumer products like toys, phone cases, and household items due to its biodegradability and aesthetic qualities.
Printing Considerations
Tips for Printing with PETG
●Bed Adhesion: Use a heated bed set to 70-90°C to ensure good adhesion. Applying a layer of glue stick or painter’s tape can help prevent warping.
●Temperature Settings: Print at nozzle temperatures between 230-250°C. Adjust settings based on your specific printer and filament brand.
●Printing Speed: Slower printing speeds (40-60 mm/s) can improve print quality and reduce stringing.
●Retraction Settings: Fine-tune retraction settings to minimize stringing, a common issue with PETG.
●Cooling: Use minimal cooling to maintain layer adhesion and reduce warping, but ensure sufficient cooling to avoid overheating small details.
Tips for Printing with PLA+
●Bed Adhesion: PLA+ often does not require a heated bed, but a bed temperature of 20-60°C can improve adhesion. Using blue painter's tape or a build surface like PEI can help.
●Temperature Settings: Print at nozzle temperatures between 190-220°C. Start with the lower end of the range and increase if necessary for better layer adhesion.
●Printing Speed: PLA+ can be printed at faster speeds (60-90 mm/s) while still maintaining good quality.
●Retraction Settings: Adjust retraction settings to minimize oozing and stringing, common issues with PLA+.
●Cooling: Use adequate cooling to improve detail and prevent overheating, which can cause sagging or poor bridging performance.
Environmental Considerations
Environmental Impact of PETG
While PETG is not biodegradable, it can be recycled. However, recycling facilities for PETG are not as widely available as for other plastics. Its durability and chemical resistance can contribute to long-term environmental persistence if not properly managed.
Environmental Impact of PLA+
PLA+ is biodegradable and made from renewable resources, reducing its environmental footprint. However, it requires industrial composting facilities to degrade efficiently. Home composting is typically insufficient for breaking down PLA+ completely.
Recycling and Disposal
●PETG: Check with local recycling programs to see if they accept PETG. Properly dispose of PETG waste to avoid environmental pollution.
●PLA+: PLA+ can be industrially composted, but facilities are limited. Recycling options are growing, but it's essential to check local capabilities.
Post-Processing Techniques
PETG Post-Processing
●Sanding: PETG can be sanded to a smooth finish. Start with a coarse grit and progress to finer grits for the best results.
●Painting: Use acrylic paints for best adhesion to PETG surfaces. Priming the surface can help achieve a smoother finish.
●Chemical Smoothing: PETG is resistant to many solvents, making chemical smoothing more challenging. However, using specific solvent mixtures can achieve a smooth surface.
PLA+ Post-Processing
●Sanding: Like PETG, PLA+ can be sanded. Wet sanding can help reduce heat buildup and achieve a finer finish.
●Painting: PLA+ takes well to acrylic paints. Priming the surface can enhance the paint's adhesion and finish.
●Chemical Smoothing: PLA+ can be smoothed using specific solvents, but care must be taken to avoid damaging the print. Alternatives include using a heat gun to slightly melt the surface for a smoother finish.
Conclusion
Both PETG and PLA+ have their unique strengths and weaknesses. If you need strong, durable, and chemically resistant prints, PETG is the way to go. However, if you prioritize ease of use, print quality, and environmental friendliness, PLA+ might be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between PETG and PLA+ depends on your specific printing needs and the requirements of your projects.
FAQ
Is PETG Better Than PLA+?
PETG is generally stronger and more durable than PLA+, offering better impact resistance and chemical resistance. However, PLA+ is easier to print with and more environmentally friendly due to its biodegradability.
Is PLA+ Harder to Print with Than PLA?
PLA+ is not significantly harder to print with than standard PLA. It maintains the ease of use of PLA while offering improved mechanical properties. Both PLA and PLA+ are suitable for beginners, though PLA+ provides added toughness.
Is PLA or PETG More Heat Resistant?
PETG is more heat resistant than PLA, with a higher glass transition temperature (around 80°C for PETG compared to 60°C for PLA+). This makes PETG more suitable for applications that involve higher temperatures.
Is PLA+ stronger than PETG?
While PETG is generally stronger and more impact-resistant than PLA+, the specific strength can vary depending on the brand and formulation of PLA+. In most cases, PETG is considered the stronger and more durable option.