The Maker Molecules: PLA (Polylactic Acid)

Ever wonder what your filament looks like at the atomic level? Now you can print it.

Welcome to the first entry in "The Maker Molecules" series. This is a artiscially/scientifically stylized model of Polylactic Acid (PLA), the most popular thermoplastic in the 3D printing world.

There is something deeply satisfying about using a spool of PLA to print the very chemical structure that makes that spool possible. It’s the ultimate "meta" maker project.

Ideal for:

• Makerspaces: A perfect display piece next to your printers.
• Classrooms: Great for STEM education and chemistry visualization.
• Desktop Decor: Show off your love for additive manufacturing.

The Science: PLA is a biodegradable polyester derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. This model represents the monomer structure that links together to form those long polymer chains in your filament.

For best results, use the following: 

1. A dedicated support material, or interface material that is easy to remove. While PVA is amazing for this model, I was also successful with TPU as an interface material. 
2. Variable layer height - helps with the contours of the skull
3. Supports on build plate - helps maintain platform quality