Latest Crumb Rubber Research Study Supports Its Safety

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 13, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- The latest objective, comprehensive crumb rubber research study supports the existing body of data that the infill material is safe as used in synthetic turf fields. 

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Act Global today released the independent testing and published analysis, performed in cooperation with a regarded organic chemist Dr. R. William Tilford and three accredited testing institutes. Dr. Tilford is an unbiased third-party expert, with a doctorate in organic chemistry and 14 years of experience as a research chemist. Dr. Tilford has a thorough understanding of how organic molecules react with each other and their environments.

In a recent episode of NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams, the show raised concerns regarding the health risks of crumb rubber infill. The episode used the word "fear" in its show, while also issuing the following comments:

"...The International Agency for Research on Cancer labels four carcinogens [arsenic, benzene, cadmium, nickel] while adding that at low levels of exposure, they are considered safe."

"...There's no research directly linking crumb rubber exposure to cancer."

"...Many researchers, states and localities defend the turf safety."

Dr. Tilford's research paper analyzed not only the four carcinogens noted by NBC, but test data of 83 substances including trace metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semi-volatiles/PAHs. Analysis concludes that no substances were measured at a higher concentration than what may be found in background typical air, soil and surrounding environments, and many substances were completely undetected. Standardized, modern and objective test protocols were utilized per US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and European Union toy safety standards.

"This collective body of data supports that this sample of crumb rubber is safe," cited Tilford in the study. "The analyzed samples offered no apparent hazard."

"We commit the resources to support independent and credible research, because our top priority is always the safety and welfare of synthetic turf users," said John Baize, owner of Act Global. "We are pleased with the results as they are consistent with numerous other studies."

More than 50 technical studies have been conducted during the past two decades which review the health effects of crumb rubber as it pertains to inhalation, ingestion, dermal contact and cancer. The preponderance of evidence shows no negative health effects associated with crumb rubber in synthetic turf.

Artificial turf is cost-effective, safe and highly resilient, and improves access to sports for children around the world. A durable synthetic turf pitch can withstand greater usage than natural grass and accommodate multiple sports and activities. According to the Synthetic Turf Council, 11,000 artificial turf fields are in use throughout the United States, saving billions of gallons of water every year.

Together, Tilford and Act Global have published the technical research analysis Act Global Crumb Rubber Safety Study. The research paper and independent lab reports are available by Email.

About Act Global
Act Global is a world leader in synthetic turf manufacturing. The company's Xtreme Turf and Xtreme Lawn products replicate natural grass for use in international stadiums, sport centers, lawns and other synthetic grass uses. Act Global has manufacturing locations in USA, Europe and Asia, and installations in over 70 countries. Act Global is notable for currently being the first company in the world that is a FIFA Preferred Producer for Football Turf, Synthetic Turf Council Certified Manufacturer, World Rugby Preferred Turf Producer, and holds an ISO 9001 certification.

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SOURCE Act Global