Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.

Yes, the use of polylactic acid (PLA) in injection molding is becoming more common, driven by rising environmental awareness, regulatory pressures on single-use and petroleum-based plastics, and advancements in PLA formulations that improve its processability and performance.

Market Growth and Drivers

The global PLA market is expanding rapidly due to demand for sustainable alternatives. It was valued at around $1.5–2 billion in recent years and is projected to reach $3.3–4.5 billion by 2028–2030, with compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) of 17–20%. 

This growth is fueled by consumer and regulatory shifts toward eco-friendly materials, particularly in packaging, consumer goods, and biomedical applications where injection molding is a key process.Broader bioplastics and biodegradable plastics markets (where PLA is a leading material) are also surging, with projections from $12–16 billion in 2025 to $77–107 billion by 2035 at CAGRs of 19–21%. Injection molding grades of PLA are specifically highlighted in market reports as benefiting from innovations, such as improved thermal/mechanical performance from companies like BASF and NatureWorks, making large-scale adoption more viable.

Environmental awareness plays a central role: Reports consistently cite increasing concerns over plastic pollution, bans on single-use plastics, and preferences for bio-based/compostable options as key drivers boosting PLA demand in sectors like food packaging and disposable items.

Adoption in Injection Molding

PLA is fully compatible with conventional injection molding equipment, often requiring only minor adjustments (e.g., thorough drying to prevent hydrolysis and optimized mold temperatures for crystallization). Specialized injection molding grades (e.g., from NatureWorks' Ingeo series) are now widely available and used for products like cutlery, trays, containers, and medical devices.

Industry sources note that PLA injection molding has transitioned from R&D to cost-effective, large-scale production, with examples including quick-service restaurants adopting PLA-coated or molded items for sustainability initiatives.

Limitations and Context

PLA still faces challenges compared to traditional plastics like polypropylene or ABS:

a.Brittleness

b.Lower heat resistance (glass transition ~55–60°C)

c.Sensitivity to moisture

d.Slower crystallization

In summary, while not yet dominant, PLA's use in injection molding is indeed increasing as environmental priorities push industries toward biodegradable, renewable options, supported by ongoing material improvements and market expansion.