Work Item
ASTM WK87846
New Test Method for Measuring the Susceptibility to Fungal Decay of Organic Infills Used in Artificial Turf
1. Scope
This test method outlines a quantitative procedure to evaluate the degree of degradation exhibited by artificial turf infill products containing or made from organic components when exposed to common decomposition and decay organisms. The applicability of this method is limited by the susceptibility to the specific strains used in the test. The measurement quantitates leaching from, and the relative weight loss of the sample and is then compared to reference materials with known durability and fungal susceptibility properties that are commonly used for the same purpose. This method is applicable to all granulated products based on or containing natural materials similar in composition to wood, wood pulp, natural fibers, and other materials derived from plants, animals, or microorganisms.
Keywords
artificial turf; organic infill; degradation; granulate degradation resistence
Rationale
The increasing interest and use of organic infills and organic fillers in composite infill materials along with the rising concerns over microplastic dispersal in the environment has brought public awareness to the sustainability and end of life considerations of turf products. This has also led to a marked increase in the use of organic and organic-containing infill types. Organic materials found in nature are almost always susceptible to decay by microorganisms, and the extent of degradation varies significantly among materials, even within the same class. This material decay can lead to a drop in material performance as well as safety concerns with regards to the microbiological content of the surface being use. This test method aims to compare the susceptibility of materials to microbiological decay by comparing new materials to materials with known history of field use. This test can also be used to evaluate new organic materials to be used as infill where durability is in question, particularly with regards to decay and degradation in the presence of common soil microbes.
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Work Item Status
Date Initiated: 09-12-2023
Technical Contact: Eric Habib
Item: 000
Ballot:
Status: