types of synthetic turf infillS
There are a variety of different infill options available for sports turf surfaces. The main types are:
- Rubber crumb – also known as SBR rubber, this is the most common infill for sports pitches. The material is generally made by grinding up and granulating recycled materials, such as car or truck tyres. Not only is SBR very cost-effective, but it is also extremely hard-wearing and resilient – ensuring the infill will perform as it should year after year.
- Coated rubber crumb – an upgraded version of standard rubber crumb where the recycled SBR granules are typically coated in a coloured polymer. This makes the crumb denser and more durable.
- Natural infills – typically made from natural/organic material such as cork, wood or coconut husk. Whilst natural infill can be recycled after use, it typically has a shorter life expectancy and can break down much faster than man-made materials. These types of infill can also be very expensive and are only available from specialist suppliers.
- EPDM infill – SISGrade – Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber is a man-made, terpolymer elastomer. Due to its saturated supporting structure, EPDM is highly resistant to ageing, weathering, UV and ozone. The material is resistant to many acids and alkalis but not to mineral oils. EPDM provides excellent resistance to weathering, ageing, ozone, chemicals, hot water, steam and polar solvents such as acetone, methanol and esters, as well as outstanding electrical and heat insulation properties.
- Other – alternative man-made rubbers such as TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) are also available.
At SIS Pitches we will suggest infill types based on your custom requirements. Every pitch is different, and while it is important to know the different options on the market, each one has its own benefits. Please contact us if you would like some more information about the right infill product for you.