ASTM International standard for artificial turf infill

ASTM International has released a new global standard on the testing of artificial turf infill – also known as crumb rubber – used in some synthetic sports fields.

The specification (F3188, Specification for Extractable Hazardous Metals in Synthetic Turf Infill Materials) measures the amount of certain metals that could be extracted from turf infill if accidentally swallowed by players.

The test method within the standard is based on ASTM International’s renowned consumer specification for toy safety (F963) and suggests the same limits on extractable hazardous metals content. The test method simulates infill coming in contact with stomach acid for a period of time, and then measures the presence of soluble elements in parts-per-million.

The time, temperature and pH of the extraction fluid used in the test are aimed at reflecting conditions in the stomach, according to ASTM member Phil Stricklen, Director of Sports Turf Research and Development at Shaw Industries.

Stricklen explains “this standard can be used by manufacturers to test their infill products prior to sale.

“The standard can also be used by architects and engineers when specifying the components for synthetic turf jobs.

“Purchasers of fields can also use the standard to test the infill that was installed on their turf.”

Opponents of artificial turf fields frequently cite the presence of metals in crumb rubber, particularly crumb rubber, in objections to the provision of artificial turf surfaces

The specification was developed by ASTM’s committee on sports equipment, playing fields and facilities (F08).

Stricklen notes that, although the new standard is now approved, the task group that developed it will continue to monitor the synthetic turf market to be prepared for eventual revisions to the standard.

All interested parties are invited to participate in further development of turf standards.

Image used for illustrative purposes only.

7th December 2016 - ASTM INTERNATIONAL TO RELEASE STANDARD FOR WATERPARK CONVEYOR BELTS

11th May 2016 - NEW ZEALAND STUDY INTO CHILDREN’S RUGBY INJURIES ON ARTIFICIAL TURF

1st May 2015 - SYNTHETIC SPORT SURFACES SEMINARS TO COVER AUSTRALIA

16th April 2015 - NEW GUIDANCE ON SYNTHETIC SPORTS SURFACE PROVISION AND USAGE

25th January 2012 - SYNTHETIC SURFACES ADVISOR HIGHLIGHTS NEW RESEARCH ON ARTIFICIAL TURF SAFETY