Life-cycle of a Synthetic Turf Field
Picture montage of a synthetic turf field (FieldTurf USA)
( All photos were taken between 2006 and 2016 )
In 2006 -- a neighborhood grass park was replaced with synthetic turf.
It was intended to showcase to the public that synthetic turf was safe, economical, and durable -- and would supposedly be viable for more than 8 years.
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The natural grass and soil were removed.
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A plastic polyethylene / polypropylene rug was stretched over gravel.
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Tiny particles of ground up car tires were then poured on top of a plastic rug to "improve bounce".
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As predicted, (by a FieldTurf employee), in two years the tire particles became "hard as rock".
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The particles dried out and broke down into dust.
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Claims that were made regarding the safety of the particles -- turned out not to be truthful.
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The loose black particles contained an unregulated mixture of toxic chemicals...
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Within the first year the field started to fray.
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Both the plastic and the tire crumb began to breakdown.
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The field was determined to be unsafe.
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It had to be replaced.
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After the redo -- the new field once again began to deteriorate.
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Patches were used to cover the gaping, rock filled, holes that were developing.
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The patches themselves became trip hazards.
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Uneven heights..
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The synthetic turf continues to deteriorate.
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The neighborhood park has become little more than a toxic sandbox for children to roll around and play in.
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