Polylactic acid (PLA) staple fiber is a sustainable, bio-based material made from renewable resources such as corn starch. As the global demand for biodegradable alternatives increases, PLA staple has emerged as a key player in the transition toward greener materials across various industries.
1. What Is PLA Staple?
PLA staple is a short-cut fiber derived from natural plant sources. It offers both environmental benefits and practical performance, making it suitable for numerous applications—from traditional spinning to high-performance non-woven textiles. With its compostable nature, low carbon footprint, and safe skin contact properties, it serves as a versatile replacement for petroleum-based fibers.
2. Key Categories of PLA Staple
eSUN classifies its PLA staple fibers into three main application categories:
● Yarn and Spinning Use
PLA staple can be used alone or blended with other fibers like cotton, wool, viscose, and Tencel to produce soft and breathable yarns for apparel.
● Filling Materials
Thanks to its crimped and fluffy structure, PLA staple is ideal for use in thermal insulation and padding. Applications include quilts, pillows, winter clothing, cushions, and plush toys.
● Non-woven Applications
PLA staple also plays a crucial role in producing non-woven fabrics. Different non-woven technologies use PLA staple in varying forms:
- Spunlace non-woven: Commonly used in wipes and medical-grade products.
- Needle-punched non-woven: Suitable for felts, leather backings, and geotextiles.
- Hot-air and thermal-bonded non-woven: Used in packaging, sanitary products, and filtration.
3. eSUN’s PLA Staple Product Lineup
eSUN offers a wide selection of PLA staple fibers tailored for different functions and industries. Below is an overview of their core products:
| Product Type | Specification | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| PLA staple | Titer: 1Denier-6Denier, Length: 6~64mm | Yarn/non-woven fabric, etc |
| PLA Super Short Cut Staple | Titer: 0.9Denier-6Denier, Length: 3/6/12mm | Wet process paper making, flocking, etc |
| PLA Bi-component Staple | Titer: 1.5Denier-5Denier, Length: 6~64mm | Non-woven fabrics/thermal bonding/fillers, etc |
| PLA Three-dimensional Crimped Staple | Titer: 1.5Denier-5Denier, Length: 38/51/64mm | Fillers for clothing, home textiles, toys, etc |
4. Major Applications of PLA Staple
● Textile Fabrics & Fashion
eSUN’s PLA staple is perfect for spinning into yarns that can be used in both pure and blended fabrics. It provides excellent comfort, drape, and breathability for garments, especially when mixed with natural fibers.
● Sanitary and Disposable Products
Its compostability and skin safety make PLA staple a preferred material in the production of sanitary pads, baby diapers, nursing pads, and disposable medical textiles.
● Filling Materials for Insulation and Comfort
3D crimped PLA staple fibers are engineered for superior loft and softness, making them a great fit for stuffing materials in jackets, cushions, bedding, and plush toys. They can be used alone or in blends to replace traditional polyester fillings.
5. The Future of PLA Staple
As environmental regulations become stricter and consumer awareness of sustainable materials grows, PLA staple fibers offer a forward-looking solution for industries seeking both performance and eco-responsibility. With continuous R&D and innovation, eSUN is at the forefront of delivering high-quality, biodegradable PLA staple products that meet global demand across fashion, home, healthcare, and packaging.
