Artificial grass, or synthetic turf, is a popular alternative for residential lawns and recreational fields due to its durability and low maintenance. This manufactured surface consists of synthetic fibers, typically mimicking natural grass blades, attached to a backing material. While offering practical benefits, public concern centers on the potential health and safety implications for people and pets who use these surfaces. Evaluating the safety of artificial turf requires a careful look at its chemical composition, physical properties, and the environmental conditions it creates.
Chemical Components and Toxin Exposure
The synthetic blades and backing material of artificial turf are primarily composed of polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or nylon. These plastic components require chemical additives for durability, color stability, and ultraviolet (UV) light resistance. Historically, older generations of artificial turf contained high levels of heavy metals, most notably lead, used as a pigment or stabilizer. As the turf fibers degraded, this toxic metal could be released as dust or leach into the environment, posing a risk, especially to young children.
Modern manufacturing has largely phased out lead, but concerns have emerged regarding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These long-lasting compounds may be introduced during production, often used as processing aids or to provide water and stain resistance. Testing on some turf blades and backing has detected fluorine, indicating the likely inclusion of PFAS chemicals. Since these “forever chemicals” do not break down easily and can leach out, their presence raises questions about potential long-term exposure through skin contact or environmental runoff.
The Safety Debate Around Infill Materials
Separate from the synthetic fibers, the infill material provides weight, cushioning, and support to keep the blades upright. The most controversial infill choice is crumb rubber, made from shredded, recycled vehicle tires. This material contains a mixture of compounds, including various metals and organic chemicals, from the tire manufacturing process. When exposed to heat and UV radiation, these contaminants can off-gas into the air.
Studies have identified the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) from crumb rubber, particularly at elevated temperatures. These include chemicals like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are known carcinogens. Although risk assessments often suggest exposure levels are low, constant, low-level exposure through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact remains a subject of debate for high-use fields. The infill particles can also become airborne or stick to skin and clothing, increasing exposure potential.
Because of concerns surrounding crumb rubber, manufacturers and consumers seek alternative infill options with better safety profiles. Materials like silica sand, often coated with an acrylic polymer, provide stability with fewer chemical exposure concerns. Other alternatives include organic materials such as coconut fibers and cork, or manufactured polymer pellets like thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). These options generally reduce the risk of VOC and heavy metal exposure compared to recycled tire material.
Thermal and Microbial Safety Concerns
Beyond chemical composition, artificial turf introduces two safety issues: heat and biological growth. Unlike natural grass, which cools itself through evapotranspiration, synthetic turf absorbs and retains heat from direct sunlight. The plastic surface can become significantly hotter than natural grass, often measuring 20 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit higher on a sunny day. Surface temperatures can exceed 150°F, which is hot enough to cause contact burns on bare skin within minutes.
This extreme surface heat contributes to a warmer microclimate just above the field, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke for users. While modern turf uses some heat-reducing technologies, the fundamental heat absorption property of dark, synthetic materials remains a challenge, making the surface a potential hazard during peak summer temperatures.
Artificial turf creates a unique environment for microorganisms because it lacks the natural filtration and biological activity of soil. Bacteria, fungi, and parasites can accumulate in the infill and on the fibers, especially in areas with poor drainage or high traffic. Pathogens like Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and the fungus that causes ringworm have been found to survive on turf surfaces. Crumb rubber infill, in particular, can harbor these microbes, which may enter the body through cuts and abrasions sustained on the surface.
Reducing Potential Risks and Exposure
Individuals who use artificial turf can adopt several proactive measures to mitigate associated risks. When selecting a product, prioritize newer systems that confirm they are lead-free and free of intentionally added PFAS chemicals in the blades and backing. For infill, selecting alternatives such as coated silica sand, TPE pellets, or organic options like cork significantly reduces exposure to VOCs and heavy metals associated with crumb rubber. If using older turf, consider having it tested for heavy metals like lead to assess the current risk level.
To combat high surface temperatures, the most direct strategy is to cool the turf before use. Lightly rinsing the surface with water provides temporary relief through evaporative cooling, lowering the temperature by 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Installing shading structures over smaller areas also limits direct sun exposure. For microbial concerns, maintaining a regular cleaning schedule is necessary to prevent pathogen buildup. This involves:
- Promptly removing organic debris and pet waste.
- Ensuring the underlying base provides adequate drainage.
- Periodically cleaning the surface with a turf-safe disinfectant solution.