A key component in artificial turf

Backing is one of the key components when producing artificial grass. It is the layer that ensures that the fibres stay where they have been tufted and prevents them from pulling out. The backing also provides the playing surface with extra weight, which adds to the overall stability of the carpet.

There are three different systems to choose from:

Latex

Latex is the traditional backing option in Europe, and remains extremely popular today. This is not only due to its lower price compared with PU backing, but also as it is used in conventional indoor carpet backing, which suits most European turf producers. The turf fibres are tufted through a primary backing sheet, such as PP (polypropylene) that provides the structure and initial support for the individual fibre tufts. A secondary backing, latex, is then applied to the back of the carpet, to bind the pile to the backing and give more weight to the overall structure. For porosity, holes are punched through the backing, at regular spacings.

Latex offers a secure backing, provided it is correctly applied. However, it is susceptible to extremely wet conditions, and a reduction in tuft lock may be seen, leading to fibres coming out after a number of years.