German researchers are developing a test method to assess the potential for synthetic grass fibre to wear. Yarn wear from synthetic grass could produce microplastics.
Microplastics from synthetic turf fields are considered a major contributor to microplastic pollution. At present, the European Commission is considering banning the placement onto the market of polymeric infill used in third-generation synthetic turf fields in the foreseeable future. Banning the use of microplastics that are intentionally added to a product, should help the EC in making a significant step forward in addressing environmental pollution.
Next stop is addressing wear from synthetic yarns like yarns for artificial turf fields.
Together with the German industry, the German based Forschungsgesellschaft Landschaftsentwicklung Landschaftsbau e. V.(Landscape Development and Landscaping Research Association) (FLL) have been working on developing a test method to assess the potential for synthetic turf fibre yarns to wear and create microplastics.
A draft test method has been published and the industry and market are invited to comment. Comments should be submitted in writing by sending an email to s.kramps@ffl.de by 31 August 2022.
2022.05.27 draft test method – reply form
The test method has also been submitted to Technical Committee 217 of the European Standards Committee (CEN) for consideration and inclusion in the new European Standard EN 15330-6 Surfaces for sports areas – Synthetic turf sports surfaces, Part 6: Specification for synthetic turf carpets, that is currently under development.
In line with the normal EN protocols, a draft prEN 15330-6 will also be published for public comment once it is finished, to allow the industry a second chance to review and comment on the draft test method.