Durable, high-performance infill and e-layer solutions for modern pitches.
Artificial turf
Genan rubber granulate is used in artificial turf systems both as infill and for the elastic base layer (e-layer). For infill, we offer GENAN FINE, GENAN FINE/MIX, and GENAN MEDIUM granulates. For e-layers, we provide GENAN COARSE, GENAN SUPER COARSE, and GENAN ULTRA COARSE options – suitable for both in-situ construction and pre-fabricated mats.
Artificial turf is fully accepted by international football organisations such as FIFA and UEFA – and is approved for use at every level of the game, including the Champions League and the World Cup.
Infill
Infill plays a crucial role in determining how the ball behaves on an artificial surface. Though it represents a minor portion of the total pitch cost, infill quality is vital for meeting performance criteria and shaping the player’s experience.
Infill must be carefully selected: too fine and it compacts; too coarse and it causes poor rebound and splashing. These size options help tailor the pitch’s response and feel to specific performance requirements.
To maintain pitch performance over time, infill levels must be topped up occasionally. Regular brushing keeps the surface elastic and reduces the need for refill. With proper upkeep, Genan infill supports long-term durability and weather resistance.
Shockpad / e-layer
The elastic layer beneath the turf carpet improves shock absorption and comfort. Known as a shockpad or e-layer, this sublayer is made from rubber granulate mixed with polyurethane. It may be installed on site (in-situ) or laid as pre-fabricated mats.
Genan rubber is ideal for this purpose due to the elasticity and long-lasting properties of tyre-derived rubber – a material shaped by decades of R&D in the tyre industry.
Our recommendations
For environmental reasons and to reduce refill demand, pitches should be designed and maintained to prevent infill loss. Genan recommends using infill barriers, perimeter mats, controlled entry points, and proper brushing techniques. To help, we offer three concise guides:
Artificial or synthetic turf is fake grass in the form of a synthetic grass carpet (turf yarn) with plastic grass blades supported by infill material – typically rubber granulate made from recycled end-of-life tyres (ELT). Rubber infill ensures ball behaviour comparable to that of natural grass – and its shock-absorbing effect helps protect players from injuries.
Synthetic turf pitches are used for football, baseball, lacrosse, American football and rugby. Their main advantage is usability: Matches can be played all day, all year, in virtually any weather. Maintenance needs are far lower than with natural grass, which requires constant care.
Skin burns were a challenge with the first two generations of synthetic turf. But with today’s third-generation systems – when properly constructed – this issue has been resolved.
No. Genan rubber granulate is clean and free from steel contamination.
A recent international literature study by the Danish Technological Institute (DTI) estimates infill discharge to the aquatic environment to be between 2.5 and 36 kg per pitch annually. By following best-practice guidelines on pitch design, maintenance and user behaviour, these figures can be reduced to near zero.
Genan recommends installing infill barriers, fencing, catch mats, and clean-down zones at entrances. Pitches should be carefully maintained with dedicated brushes to prevent infill loss. These steps protect both the environment and pitch performance.
Yes. The specification of artificial turf is designed to closely mimic the ball response of natural grass.
Most players say the speed is about the same; some report slightly faster ball travel on synthetic pitches.
FIFA recognises artificial turf as an economical, high-availability surface. It’s especially useful in developing countries where natural grass maintenance is unfeasible due to water use and cost. Synthetic turf enables continuous play and talent development without rest periods for pitch recovery.
Yes. Snow removal may be required in winter, but otherwise the pitch is usable year-round.
Maintenance costs vary geographically. But the more extreme the climate, the more cost-efficient artificial turf becomes. In very dry or very cold regions, savings are especially significant.
Not when Genan’s virtually dust-free rubber infill is used.
No. Multiple scientific studies – both historic and recent – have established that rubber infill made from end-of-life tyres does not pose any elevated health risk. In February 2017, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) published its findings in a new, comprehensive study. ECHA “has found no reason to advise people against playing sports on synthetic turf containing recycled rubber granules as infill material”. This advice is based on ECHA’S evaluation “that there is a very low level of concern from exposure to substances found in the granules”.
Yes. As part of the EU’s broader plastic pollution directive, a ban on the sale of rubber granulate as infill material takes effect on 17 October 2031. Until then, it is still allowed to construct, use and maintain artificial turf pitches with rubber granulate as infill material. From 17 October 2031 onwards, it will still be allowed to use and maintain artificial turf pitches with rubber infill, but if refill of rubber granulate is required, it must be from own stock.
No limits
Keeping rubber granulate on the artificial turf pitch is paramount for the environment and to minimise the need for refills.
Simple steps make a real difference, and everyone can play their part.
Watch our video to see Genan’s recommendations for maintaining performance and protecting nature.
Reports
To support transparency, Genan shares key studies on:
At Genan, we give used tyres a new life, creating unique and sustainable products – only imagination sets the limit! Have an idea or a request? Let’s make it happen.
