3D Printing Significantly Boosts Demand for Lactic Acid/Polylactic Acid (PLA)
Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a biodegradable, bio-based polymer derived from renewable resources. Beyond 3D printing, traditional applications for PLA include: ① Food packaging and tableware (such as cutlery), which leverage its high transparency, rigidity, and compostability. ② Foamed materials, used in packaging to provide cushioning and protection for goods during transit; these foams are also utilized in building insulation and lightweight automotive components. ③ Paper coatings, which serve as moisture-resistant barriers for paper products like cups and food containers. According to S&P Global, global demand for PLA is projected to reach 288,000 tons by 2025 (while estimates from investor communications by Hisun Biomaterials suggest a figure closer to 300,000 tons). Key downstream markets include Mainland China (40%), Europe (22%), North America (21%), and other Asian countries (15%). 3D printing has emerged as a major growth driver for PLA demand; based on insights from Hisun Biomaterials, PLA consumption in the 3D printing sector is estimated to exceed 40,000 tons in 2024, with a projected increase to 140,000 tons by 2026-a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 87%.
Surging Demand: A Combination of Western Markets and Chinese Manufacturing;
3D Printing Applications Continue to Expand
According to research by AMPOWER/MTDG, approximately 94% of the world's desktop 3D printers in 2025 are manufactured in China, while the primary consumer base is concentrated in the Americas-with individual (private) users accounting for over 90% of that market. 3D printing has become a "hit" in Europe and the United States. We believe the primary reasons are: ① A favorable "environment"-these regions possess a mature DIY consumer culture, a strong demand for personalized products, and a large base of users willing to pay for creative items. Consumers use 3D printers to create toys, models, desktop ornaments, gaming props, and home accessories-applications well-suited for long-tail, personalized needs. ② The impact of Chinese manufacturing, which has driven a continuous decline in equipment costs. For instance, while an Ultimaker 2 printer was priced at approximately €2,000 in 2013, the Bambu Lab P2S-launched by Bambu Lab-is priced at just €500 today, while offering print speeds of up to 600 mm/s. As equipment prices fall and performance improves, the barriers to purchasing and using 3D printers have lowered. ③ A shift in application scenarios: 3D printing is evolving from a tool for personal hobbies into a production-grade manufacturing technology. An increasing number of companies are establishing "print farms"-facilities housing hundreds or even thousands of 3D printers-to carry out large-scale production. Notable examples include Jinqi Toys (China), Wigglitz (USA), and Recozy (Europe).
