South Korean synthetic turf producer Kolon Glotech has developed a synthetic turf surface that addresses the issues with existing infill materials. The company relies on a shock pad to replace the properties installing companies currently produce by using a large volume of infill granules.

The new non-infill system effectively absorbs impact to ensure user safety, at the same time addressing environmental concerns about microplastics generated by conventional infill materials.

Kolon Glotech has also applied an eco-friendly dry coating technology to its latest concept. Compared with existing coating methods, it is much lighter, has superior drainage, and is even recyclable. The  company claims that, additionally, the grass fibers have high durability, so they do not get easily displaced in the event of excessive usage or in extreme weather conditions such as monsoon, a heat wave or freezing temperatures. The product is fully compliant with the professional performance standards required by the International Football Association (FIFA), as well as the high durability standard set by the Korea Industrial Standards body (KS).

Last year, FIFA set up a separate team to look into the establishment of new standards for a non-infill synthetic turf system which can maintain performance without generating harmful by-products. To keep pace with this new trend, a number of global companies are developing non-infill synthetic grass.

Mr Park Geon-soo, head of the business division at Kolon Glotch, noted that “Kolon Glotch is leading a new trend through the eco-friendly non-infill synthetic turf system. We are actively developing this market. We will continue to focus on research and development to resolve any issues such as environmental hazards and user safety.”

The non-infill system was installed in Jeju Middle School in February this year.