Synthetic turf

The synthetic grass surface is composed of polypropylene and polyethylene fibers. The fibers, which have a different density and height, are immersed in a 2 mm layer of latex.

Basic parameters such as height and density make it possible to optimally suit a surface type to a given sport.

What makes synthetic turf better than natural turf?

  • its performance is the same as that of natural grass;
  • it is more durable than natural grass;
  • it can be used in all seasons and doesn't require rest periods;
  • it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor facilities;
  • its maintenance cost is significantly lower than the maintenance cost of natural grass;
  • artificial turf fields can be used immediately after their installation;
  • synthetic turf is available in a variety of colours;
  • it retains a natural look in all seasons.

Surface characteristics

Basic parameters including the total height, density (the number of fibers per square meter), weight and fiber type make it possible to suit a surface type to a given sport.

Purpose Surface characteristics Suitable bases
  • football
  • handball
  • volleyball
  • basketball
  • tennis
  • badminton
  • rugby
  • hockey
  • multipurpose sports fields
  • water permeable
  • providing good ball bounce
  • easily installed
  • multipurpose
  • highly elastic
  • concrete
  • asphalt concrete
  • crushed stone

The fibers are made of polyethylene or polypropylene. Polyethylene fibers are less rough and more delicate, reducing the risk of skin abrasion. What is more, they are more wear- and UV-resistant and perform better in minus temperatures than polypropylene fibers. This fiber type is best suited to sports characterised by an increased risk of falling down such as football.

There are two fiber types: monofilament fibers (single, narrow yarns interwoven to form a strand) and fibrillated fibers (curled or straight, cut along the length of the yarn). While the advantage of the former is increased wear resistance and resemblance to natural grass, the latter is characterised by better resilience.

Quartz sand and SBR or EPDM granules are most often used as infill. Quartz sand causes the surface to adhere to the subgrade and enables the fibers to spring back after being trampled down. Granules ensure right ball bounce and reduce the risk of injuries if a player falls down. Being fire-resistant and much less susceptible to compaction, EPDM are considered the most durable granules. An undeniable merit of SBR, however, is its price.

A significant parameter to be taken into consideration when choosing an artificial grass surface is its height. Based on the fiber height, grass is classified into:

  • golf grass - height between 11 and 17 mm;
  • multipurpose grass - height between 17 and 22 mm;
  • football grass - height between 40 and 70 mm.

The most common colours for artificial turf are green, olive or red. The marking lines are usually white or yellow. Their width depends on the sport.

Safety of use

To be totally safe, games should take place in adequately prepared sports facilities. Materials used for their construction should have quality and health safety certificates. A warm-up, suitable clothes, shoes (with flat soles and soft edges) and protective gear are equally important.

Every sports field should be equipped with boards listing safety rules for using sports equipment. Safety is also increased by a constant presence of a supervisor responsible for the technical condition of the surface and the safety of users. The surface should be used only for sports. It must not be used for other purposes such as hosting mass events (concerts, etc.).