Advanced Technologies in Synthetic Grass: Enhancing Performance, Realism, and Sustainability

There are several common issues associated with artificial turf—slow drainage, fading color, warping, shrinking, shredding and static production. But new solutions on the market now feature new technologies that systematically address these problems, making artificial turf better than it’s ever been before.

For example, SYNLawn’s Super Yarn incorporates antimicrobial, anti-static, and infrared radiation-reflective features to deliver a high level of durability, safety and comfort.

“Everything starts at the fiber,” states SYNLawn’s Senior Director of Sales Rob Dant. “SYNLawn engineers performance into the yarn itself at the molecular level, rather than relying on topical treatments that wear off within a few seasons. UV stabilization, drainage capacity, and yarn resilience are built-in properties, not add-ons.”

The company’s array of products are designed with an EnviroLoc Backing System, a high-performance drainage pattern which helps ensure long-term drainage and dimensional stability. The technology endures the effects of temperature swings and is designed with perforations which allow for the base to drain effectively while maintaining the structural integrity of the backing. This prevents clogging and safeguards performance.

“EnviroLoc is the only backing system on the market proven to prevent algae and fungi formation, which is a real consideration for projects near sensitive waterways or within sustainability-focused development programs,” says Dant.

All products pass the ASTM water permeability test and demonstrate the ability to drain more than 1,200 inches per hour, outpacing the volume of water produced by even the largest downpour.

In addition to better drainage, there are several other innovations helping to make this artificial grass even greener. 

Sanitized silver-based antimicrobial protection keeps bacteria, mold and mildew from taking hold at the fiber level. “SYNLawn is the only manufacturer to carry antimicrobial protection through the entire system, yarn and backing,” says Dant.

DualChill IR-Reflective technology reflects up to 42 percent of infrared rays to keep the turf and visitors cooler in the sun, thereby enhancing comfort.

StatBlock anti-static technology is 17 times more effective at reducing static than competing products, “This is really important when it comes to the Cochlear implants that can really be affected by static discharge. It’s one of the big selling points for playground applications,” says Sane.

Deluster lends a realistic, non-reflective appearance, mimicking the look of regular grass. “Natural grass does not grow in one direction. It is not shiny. It has texture, variation and a quality of movement that shifts with light and season. Getting that right on a manufactured surface is harder than it sounds,” explains Dant.