There are no significant differences between PLA and PLA+. Even though the print settings, like printing speed and temperature, are practically the same, PLA+ tends to have slightly better surface quality, color, or mechanical properties.
Depending on the vendor, PLA+ is usually a mixture of other plastics, additives, or pigments that help in improving on the weaknesses of standard PLA, such as moisture absorption and brittleness.
The PLA vs PLA+ mystery is made more complicated by the fact that there is no standard formulation for distinguishing between PLA and PLA+. Manufacturers will typically add their modifiers and additives and remain tight-lipped about their formulas. They then simply market their product as having more benefits over standard PLA.
eSUN’s PLA+ is a perfect example. The manufacturer claims it is extracted and purified from corn grain and it boasts high rigidity, transparency, and glossiness. This filament is twice as tough as standard PLA and has no cracking problem, according to eSUN.
eSUN PLA+
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Other examples of PLA+:
Most of these filaments are advertised as being stronger, less brittle, more durable, and better for layer adhesion. In many cases, they are described as being the “missing link” between PLA and ABS.
