Rubber granules are spread into artificial turf sports pitches as elastic infill. They improve shock absorption, ball behaviour, and grip when turning and stopping.
Types
- SBR granules: made from recycled end-of-life tyres, usually black and inexpensive
- EPDM granules: virgin material, coloured and weather-resistant
- coated granules: SBR with a coloured coating
Microplastics regulation
Loose plastic and rubber granules fall under the EU restriction on microplastics. After a transitional period, they may no longer be sold as infill material from October 2031. Alternatives include cork granules, quartz sand, or unfilled systems. In private gardens, rubber granules are generally not required.
