Dow Chemical Showcases Innovative Artificial Turf at NPE 2015 Interactive Gallery Walk
Dow exhibited its leading Performance Plastics Technologies and Solutions including its innovative artificial turf during the NPE 2015 International Plastics Showcase in Orlando, Fla. The artificial turf, which is based on the company's polyethylene (PE) and polyurethane (PU), will be the official playing surface for hockey competitions during the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
Dow’s Performance Plastics is demonstrated to be one of the world’s largest and most differentiated plastics portfolio and it is strategically aligned with fast-growing markets including food packaging, personal hygiene, consumer durable goods, automotive, and infrastructure.
Under the banner of “Inspiring Innovation,” Dow illustrated how its approach to research and development, sustainability and value chain collaboration expedites the development of breakthrough solutions to world challenges. Dow also showcased its growth projects that will strengthen its ability to support customers around the world.
Jackie deGroot, senior development scientist, Dow Chemical
Visitors at the NPE 2015 Show had the opportunity to experience Dow’s Interactive Gallery Walk. There, visitors witnessed the performance and processing advantages of Dow’s next-generation resin products via demonstrations on leading machine manufacturers’ equipment lines. Visitors could also feel the new artificial turf solution and learn about the technical aspects of the material to be used in Rio 2016 Olympic Games from Dow Chemical experts.
RIO 2016 OLYMPIC GAMES ARTIFICIAL TURF
Durability
The playing surface consists of specific high-performing materials formulated together in multiple layers. The surface system is designed to deliver enhanced durability for increased pitch life, and a consistent field-of-play throughout the busy Olympic competition schedule.
“Durability is one of the key benefits of artificial turf playing surfaces versus grass field, and this durability provides consistency at play,” said Jackie deGroot, senior development scientist, Hygiene and Medical TS&D, Dow Chemical. “What that means to the players is, from game to game, they can expect same surface behavior, and this is very important in elite games like the Olympics.”
Production
The production of synthetic turf is a highly-elaborated process. The system begins with the production of the masterbatch and the yarn for the turf. The subsequent tufting and backing process provide a strong turf bind, even when the surface is wet. For the upper surface layer, the polymer yarn provides wear resistance and energy absorption, combined with softness and speed. The complete turf system, including embedded shock pad properties, provides stability, durability, shock absorption and force reduction properties for the benefit of the players and the game.
According to deGroot, there are technical requirements for the polymer to be used. For instance, it has to be pressure-resistant which means being tear resistant and resilient or the ability to be bent back after being strained. Abrasion resistance is another required property.
Color
deGroot said that another important aspect is the necessity to use vibrant colors for visual benefits, such as the blue color, in order to provide a nice contrast between the playing field and the ball.
The internationally-certified artificial turf system offers colorability, enabling customized aesthetics and design for the playing surface. London 2012 marked the first Olympic hockey competition in history to be played on blue and pink turf. The blue color enabled players, officials, spectators and the media to keep their eyes on the ball more easily, because it provided a high level of contrast against the yellow ball and white lines.
“We are very excited about our polymer’s ability to accept the required pigment to achieve the desired effect,” deGroot said.
She added that the turf is a sustainable solution because it is an alternative to natural grass, which would require other elements such as water, fertilization and other additional care.
Jackie deGroot, senior development scientist, Dow Chemical; Eduardo Gils, AmericaPlast
Dow Chemical is the Official Chemistry Company of the Olympics Games and Dow became Worldwide Partner of the Olympic Games in 2010.
“Our unique position as the Official Chemistry Company of the Olympic Games and a global leader in the plastics industry, combined with our customer’s experience in artificial playing surfaces, enables us to deliver the best turf conditions for the world’s greatest athletes – in hockey and other sports,” said Ana Carolina Haracemiv, global marketing director, Dow Packaging & Specialty Plastics. “The solution we developed together is durable, low maintenance, stays consistently flat and fast from game to game, and requires no watering - compared to natural grass.”
Click HERE to listen Jackie deGroot, TITULO, presentation at Dow Chemical Interactive Gallery Walk at NPE 2015. http://new.livestream.com/Americaplast/NPE2015
For more information about Dow visit www.dow.com
