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The spreading of hybrid installations on sports venues and trainings grounds is increasing, whilst synthetic pitches have undergone further development, but classic natural sports turf still remains an important option.
Natural turf, synthetic turf, hybrid turf – at least three options are available for sports pitches and it is now possible to control the characteristics of a pitch which can be particularly desirable in football. The transitions are to a certain extent fluid as hybrid systems can be added to bearing layers or as mechanical support for the grass roots.
Diversification of the product range continues though, including the synthetic strengthening of natural turf taking place in very strained zones like in the penalty box in football. Since the mid-1990s hybrid turf has been available in the market and incorporated in numerous elite stadiums and further systems from various providers since have demonstrated their market maturity with numerous hybrid-bearinglayers and hybrid turfs in different combinations available.
Despite this, there is a clear divide within the turf sphere – whilst the hybrid systems are classified as natural turf, all other systems that do not comprise of natural components (excluding cork infill) are regarded as artificial turf. This definition is based on the implementation regulations of the associations relevant.
You can find the whole article including a table of new installed hybrid turfs in 2016 in the current Stadionwelt special issue SPORTS VENUES 2017.
Information and ordering options for SPORTS VENUES 2017
Whilst an increasing number of hybrid products are available in the marketplace, the synthetic turf industry is constantly striving to offer products which are similar to its natural role model. As a result of research and development, synthetic blades of grass are becoming more resistant and at the same time smoother as well as not storing much heat. But also, the back of the turf is important as is the infill material including filling level and elastic layer. (Stadiaworld, 16.12.2016)
