Effect of extrinsic factors and structural components on sport functionality of artificial turf surfaces

The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of environmental factors on the mechanical behaviour of artificial turf football pitches and evaluate the effect of induced wear on the mechanical properties of the surface. A series of laboratory tests were conducted on 31 samples of artificial turf. The tests were done by a Fédération Internationale de Football Association–accredited test institute. In wet conditions, the shock absorption and linear friction slide were significantly higher than in dry conditions, whereas the angle ball rebound was significantly lower. Regarding the wear effect, a significant increment of the vertical rebound and rotational resistance was produced. The shock absorption and vertical deformation significantly decreased. The mechanical properties deteriorated 5.90% less in the samples that had installed an elastic layer compared to those that did not. The shock absorption was significantly lower at 40°C compared to the shock absorption at −5°C and 23°C. These findings highlight the importance of installing an elastic layer in artificial turf football pitches, to increase their useful life and, therefore, to assure the security of the users for a longer time.