Infill depth and grading impact ball roll and player traction. Regular grooming keeps the system stable and evenly distributed.
Infill quality selection affects temperature, durability, and player comfort.
Outdoor Surface
SBR Granules
SBR infill granules commonly used under synthetic turf to provide cushioning and stability.
Photo by Vasiliy Galushko on Unsplash
What Is SBR Rubber Granules (Infill)?
SBR (Styrene Butadiene Rubber) granules are the most widely used infill material for artificial turf sports surfaces globally. They are made from recycled car and truck tyres, processed into small granules (typically 1–4mm diameter) and used to fill the gaps between the synthetic grass fibres of football pitches, hockey grounds, and other turf surfaces.
SBR infill performs two critical functions: it keeps the turf fibres standing upright (like a grass blade supported by soil), and it provides shock absorption to protect players from impact injuries. The black colour of SBR is distinctive and you will have seen it in any artificial turf facility.
From an environmental perspective, SBR extends the lifespan of recycled rubber from vehicle tyres, diverting them from landfill. Safety studies by the EU, FIFA, and multiple national health agencies have concluded that SBR infill poses no significant health risk in normal sports use.
Key Specifications & India Cost
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Material | Recycled SBR (Styrene Butadiene Rubber) from vehicle tyres |
| Granule Size | 0.5–2.5mm (crumb) or 1–4mm (coarse) depending on application |
| Colour | Black (natural rubber colour) |
| Density Applied | 7–20 kg/sqm depending on turf pile height |
| India Cost Range | ₹25 – 60/kg (supply only); ₹40–90/sqm installed |
| Sports Applications | Football, hockey, rugby, padel, cricket outfield |
| Lifespan in Surface | Annual top-up required; does not degrade, only migrates |
| Certifications | FIFA approved; FIH approved; World Rugby approved |
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Most cost-effective infill option for sports turf
- Excellent shock absorption — FIFA certified
- Environmentally responsible — made from 100% recycled tyres
- Does not degrade or decompose — lasts indefinitely in the surface
- Widely available in India from multiple suppliers
- Maintains turf fibre performance across full temperature range
Considerations
- Black colour absorbs heat — increases surface temperature in direct sunlight
- Can migrate out of the court if fencing/containment is poor
- Granules can be carried on footwear and scattered outside play area
- Some players and parents prefer non-rubber infill alternatives
- Requires annual top-up as granules compact over time
Recommended Applications
Football turf infill
Multi-sport turf
Training fields
Surfaces Used
SBR infill
Certifications & Standards
FIFA
Design & Performance Notes
Typical Build Scope
Sub-Base Work
Top Flooring: SBR infill
Fencing
Lighting
Accessories / Civil Works
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SBR rubber infill safe for players?
Multiple comprehensive reviews, including by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), FIFA, and RIVM (Netherlands), have concluded that SBR infill poses no significant health risk during normal sports use. As a standard precaution, hand washing after play is recommended, particularly for young players. Durosport uses only FIFA-approved SBR from certified suppliers.
Why does SBR infill get so hot?
The black colour of SBR rubber absorbs solar radiation more readily than lighter-coloured surfaces. In direct Indian summer sun, surface temperatures can reach 60–70°C on an SBR-filled turf pitch. Mitigation options include watering the surface before play, scheduling play in cooler hours, or using TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) infill which has a lighter colour and lower heat absorption.
What is TPE infill and how does it compare to SBR?
TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) is a virgin rubber alternative to SBR. It is typically lighter in colour (grey, tan, or green), runs 5–15°C cooler than SBR in sunlight, and does not contain recycled tyre content. TPE costs approximately 2–3x more than SBR. For premium installations, padel courts, or areas with heat sensitivity, TPE is the preferred alternative.
How often does SBR infill need to be topped up?
Annual infill top-up is recommended for heavily used sports surfaces. The infill compresses and migrates over time, reducing the shock absorption performance of the turf. A typical 5-a-side pitch needs 1–3 kg/sqm of new SBR per year. This is a routine maintenance item included in most turf maintenance packages.
Can SBR infill be removed and replaced with a different infill?
Yes — SBR infill can be removed using specialist vacuum/blower equipment and replaced with TPE, cork, or other infill. This is done during major turf maintenance or when upgrading the pitch's thermal or environmental performance. The turf fibres remain intact.
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