Infill Containment on Artificial Turf Pitches: An Essential Guide
Artificial turf pitches have become increasingly popular in various sports due to their durability, low maintenance, and ability to withstand diverse weather conditions. However, the use of infill materials, which are crucial for the performance and safety of these surfaces, has raised environmental concerns. This blog post explores the importance of infill containment systems, the types of infill materials used, and effective strategies to mitigate infill migration.
The Role of Infill in Artificial Turf
Infill serves multiple purposes in artificial turf systems:
- Shock Absorption: It provides cushioning to reduce the impact on athletes' joints during play.
- Surface Stability: Infill helps keep the turf blades upright, ensuring a consistent playing surface.
- Drainage: Properly distributed infill allows water to percolate through the turf, preventing pooling and maintaining field usability.
Without adequate infill, artificial turf can become uneven and unsafe, leading to injuries and a decline in playing quality
.Environmental Concerns
Traditional infill materials, such as rubber granules derived from tires (SBR & encapsulated SBR infill), or even EPDM and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), have been scrutinized for their environmental impact.
These materials can contribute significantly to microplastic pollution. For instance, studies indicate that plastic infill can be a major source of microplastics in the environment.
As a response to these concerns, there has been a shift towards exploring more sustainable alternatives like cork, coconut fibers, olives, corn cob, and other organic materials. However, these alternatives each come with their own challenges regarding performance and longevity
Infill Migration Issues
Infill migration refers to the loss of infill material from the playing surface due to various factors such as wind, player movement, or improper maintenance. This not only affects the integrity of the turf but also leads to increased costs for replenishing lost material. It is estimated that fields can lose up to 7,000 pounds of infill annually due to migration.
To address these issues effectively, implementing robust containment strategies is essential.
Strategies for Infill Containment
- Barrier Systems: Installing physical barriers around the perimeter of the pitch can significantly reduce infill loss. These barriers can be made from mesh or solid materials that prevent infill from escaping while allowing visibility and access.
- Entryway Design: Creating designated entry points with boot cleaning stations can help trap loose infill before athletes leave the field. Grated areas can collect migrating particles that can be easily swept back onto the pitch.
- Regular Maintenance: A proactive maintenance schedule that includes brushing and raking can help redistribute infill evenly across the surface. This practice not only maintains optimal performance but also minimizes migration risks by addressing loose grains before they scatter
- Field Design Considerations: When designing new fields or renovating existing ones, incorporating features like filtered drainage systems can help manage infill levels more effectively while enhancing overall field performance
- Education and Awareness: Training staff on proper maintenance techniques and the importance of containment can foster a culture of responsibility that further protects the investment in artificial turf systems
Conclusion
Infill containment is a crucial aspect of maintaining artificial turf pitches that ensures safety for athletes while addressing environmental concerns associated with traditional infill materials.
By implementing effective containment strategies and considering sustainable alternatives for infill, sports facilities can enhance their operational efficiency and contribute positively to environmental stewardship.
As awareness grows around these issues, it becomes imperative for stakeholders in sports management to prioritize both performance and sustainability in their turf management practices.
For any consultancy requirements from our team or industry experts, please do message us at : export@sodexsport.com
Some great sources of expertize to read from on this subject :
https://sapca.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Guidance-Note-Infill-Migration-Mitigation-v2.pdf
https://www.estc.info/infill-dispersion-can-be-managed/
