EPA Study of Synthetic Turf and Crumb Rubber Finds 'Low Level of Concern'

Further confirmation that synthetic turf fields using rubber infield material have a low risk to youth participants. EPA Study of Synthetic Turf and Crumb Rubber Finds 'Low Level of Concern'

Study findings:

* Particulate matter, metals and volatile organic compound concentrations were measured in the air samples and compared with areas away from the turf fields (background levels). The levels found in air samples from the artificial turf were similar to background levels.
* No tire-related fibers were observed in the air samples.
* All air concentrations of particulate matter and lead were well below levels of concern.
* More than 90 percent of the lead in the tire crumb material was tightly bound and unavailable for absorption by users of the turf fields.
* Zinc, which is a known additive in tires, was found in tire crumb samples. However, air and surface wipe monitoring levels of zinc were found to be below levels of concern.

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