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FAQ 03 The risks of rubber

What potentially harmful chemicals can recycled rubber used as filler in synthetic turf fields contain?

Recycled rubber used as filler on artificial turf fields, often made from used tires, can contain various potentially harmful chemicals. These include:

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs): These compounds are known to be carcinogenic, with health effects that may include skin and eye irritation, breathing difficulties and damage to the immune system.
Heavy metals: These include lead, mercury, cadmium and nickel. Each of these metals has specific toxic effects on the human body, including damage to the nervous, renal and endocrine systems.
Phthalates: These chemical compounds are known endocrine disruptors, which can interfere with normal hormonal function in the body.
Benzene and toluene: These hydrocarbons may have harmful effects on the central nervous system, kidneys, liver and immune system.
Styrene: This chemical compound is known to be a possible human carcinogen.
Vinyl chloride: It is a synthetic gas that is a known potential carcinogen.

It is important to note that while these chemicals may be present in recycled rubber, exposure to them may vary depending on numerous factors, including weather conditions, intensity of court use, and court maintenance practices.

Finally, research into the health effects of these chemicals on artificial turf fields is still ongoing, and not all research has reached the same conclusions. Therefore, it is important to consider all available information when making decisions regarding the use of these types of fields.