Posted August 30, 2023

Artificial turf has transformed outdoor spaces with its low maintenance appeal, resembling natural grass without the hassle. However, a common concern among users is its tendency to heat up in the sun, making it less comfortable to walk or play on. In this blog, we'll explore the science behind why artificial turf heats up when exposed to the sun and dispel the myth that the color of the backing affects its temperature. Additionally, we'll introduce you to a game-changing innovation in artificial turf – cooling infills like HydroChill, which provide a solution to this heat problem.

The Sun's Role in Heating Artificial Turf

The primary reason artificial turf heats up under the sun is the remarkable power of solar radiation. Sunlight consists of various wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, including visible light and infrared (IR) radiation. When these rays reach the artificial turf, they interact with its surface.

Artificial turf primarily absorbs the sun's energy, especially in the form of IR radiation. This energy absorption leads to an increase in temperature on the turf's surface, akin to the way your car heats up on a sunny day. The energy is converted into heat, raising the turf's temperature.

The Quick Cooling Effect of Shade

One fascinating aspect of artificial turf is its rapid response to shade. The moment shade is introduced, such as from a passing cloud or a building, the turf almost instantly begins to cool down. This swift cooling occurs because the absence of direct sunlight means there's no longer a source of energy to sustain the elevated temperature. The heat absorbed by the turf is released into the surroundings, quickly bringing it back to ambient temperature.

Debunking the Backing Color Myth

Now, let's debunk a prevalent misconception – the notion that the color of the backing on artificial turf significantly affects its temperature. This is simply not true. The color of the backing, whether it's black, green, blue, white, pink, or beige, has minimal impact on the surface temperature of the turf. The crucial factor is the turf's top layer, which is what directly interacts with sunlight.

Innovations in Cooling Infills: The HydroChill Solution

To address the heat issue associated with artificial turf, innovative solutions have emerged, such as cooling infills. One outstanding example is HydroChill. This cutting-edge infill material has been proven to substantially reduce the temperature of artificial turf. It achieves this by mimicking the natural cooling effect of soil beneath real grass.

HydroChill incorporates the principles of evaporative cooling. The infill material is designed to absorb and retain moisture, which is then released as the surface temperature rises due to sun exposure. This moisture evaporates, absorbing heat in the process and significantly reducing the artificial grass surface temperature. The result is a much cooler and more comfortable playing or lounging surface.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the heating of artificial turf under the sun is primarily caused by the absorption of solar radiation, particularly infrared radiation. Shade rapidly cools the turf as it removes the energy source. Importantly, the color of the backing has minimal influence on the turf's temperature.

Exciting innovations like HydroChill offer a promising solution to the heat issue associated with artificial turf. By employing principles of evaporative cooling, these cooling infills significantly reduce surface temperatures, making artificial turf a more comfortable and enjoyable option for outdoor spaces. With these developments, artificial turf continues to evolve, providing both aesthetic appeal and enhanced usability.