Oral Presentations

Student Author Information

John Paul Lopez, Lynchburg CollegeFollow

Location

Hopwood Auditorium

Access Type

Event

Event Website

http://www.lynchburg.edu/academics/red-letter-day/student-scholar-showcase/

Entry Number

149

Start Date

4-6-2016 1:45 PM

End Date

4-6-2016 2:00 PM

Abstract

The popularity and use of artificial turf has grown tremendously in our nation in the past decade. It is found in yards, playgrounds, landscapes at large corporations, and most commonly on playing fields at professional, collegiate, and high school levels. Artificial turf exhibits the appearance and texture of natural grass, but does not require the routine maintenance and added chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides to maintain its’ appearance. The physical structure is comprised of crumb rubber materials (CRM), which is essentially small “rubber pellets”. This rubber infill is the direct byproduct of millions of shredded car tires. Although we have been led by the industry to believe that artificial turf and CRM is a safe product, there are documented concerns of potential health risks associated with long-term exposure. The rubber granulates that people come in contact with contain polyaromatic hydrocarbons, phthalates, and other volatile organic compounds that release dangerous toxicants when burned. Currently, there are studies analyzing the direct links from crumb rubber material and health concerns from exposure; however, more research is needed. This presentation explores the current research and will discuss both the benefits and potential health effects associated with artificial turf made with CRM.

Faculty Mentor(s)

Dr. Jennifer L. Hall

Share

COinS
 
Apr 6th, 1:45 PM Apr 6th, 2:00 PM

Health Effects of Long-Term Exposure to Crumb Rubber Material Infill in Artificial Turf Fields

Hopwood Auditorium

The popularity and use of artificial turf has grown tremendously in our nation in the past decade. It is found in yards, playgrounds, landscapes at large corporations, and most commonly on playing fields at professional, collegiate, and high school levels. Artificial turf exhibits the appearance and texture of natural grass, but does not require the routine maintenance and added chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides to maintain its’ appearance. The physical structure is comprised of crumb rubber materials (CRM), which is essentially small “rubber pellets”. This rubber infill is the direct byproduct of millions of shredded car tires. Although we have been led by the industry to believe that artificial turf and CRM is a safe product, there are documented concerns of potential health risks associated with long-term exposure. The rubber granulates that people come in contact with contain polyaromatic hydrocarbons, phthalates, and other volatile organic compounds that release dangerous toxicants when burned. Currently, there are studies analyzing the direct links from crumb rubber material and health concerns from exposure; however, more research is needed. This presentation explores the current research and will discuss both the benefits and potential health effects associated with artificial turf made with CRM.

https://digitalshowcase.lynchburg.edu/studentshowcase/2016/Presentations/2