In a typical sports environment, plastics constitute roughly 70% of the materials used, spanning from stadium seating, and artificial turf to sports gear. Besides, plastics improve performance, safety, and accessibility in unprecedented ways. This highlights the crucial role of plastics in sports and makes them the unsung heroes that enable athletes to excel and fans to enjoy games more comfortably and securely. In this article, let's find out which types of plastics in sports are used across various fields!
1. Plastics on the field
Artificial turf is currently made from a combination of various types of plastics. Synthetic turf manufacturers mimic the characteristics and design of natural grass on synthetic fibers to create the most realistic artificial grass possible. Here are some of the plastic materials used to make artificial turf.
1.1. Nylon
Nylon
Nylon fiber is a common plastic compound used in the artificial turf carpet industry. It is made from a group of polymers in the industrial plastic Polyamide group, known for its strong and heat-resistant structure. Nylon fiber is cost-effective while ensuring basic quality. However, it tends to fade when exposed to sunlight. Therefore, if you choose nylon grass, you will need to regularly spray or dye it to maintain its appearance. In general, this material is relatively simple to produce and quite affordable, which makes it an optimal choice for artificial turf production.
1.2. Polyester (PE)
Polyester - PE
Polyester fiber is a material made from flexible plastic pellets with a crystalline structure that allows it to expand and contract flexibly under different temperature conditions. This gives polyester fiber high elasticity and durability, which makes it very suitable for constructing outdoor artificial turf. Additionally, the crystalline structure helps the turf's color adhere more firmly and prevents it from fading when exposed to prolonged sunlight. Moreover, polyester fiber provides effective waterproofing and insulation, ensuring the quality of the products
1.3. Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene - PP
In comparison with nylon and polyester fibers (PE), polypropylene (PP) fibers offer superior quality. Polypropylene fibers are produced from propylene monomers and are commonly used in packaging products as well as in the construction of high-durability components. However, the cost of producing PP is usually high, so this material is often chosen for premium artificial turf such as sports fields or high-end architectural projects.
2. Plastics on footwear and apparel
Plastics are essential in the footwear and apparel industry, providing durability, flexibility, and style for products. Here are some types of plastics in sports that are often used in making shoes and clothes.
2.1. Using plastic in shoe sole production
Polyurethane (PU) is known for its versatility and lightweight nature. This material is often used in shoe soles, providing cushioning and support for comfort during long walks or intense workouts.
Another commonly used plastic is ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), valued for its softness and shock absorption properties. EVA is frequently utilized in the midsoles of athletic shoes to provide a comfortable and responsive feel.
PVC is also a popular material for shoe soles. Formed by the polymerization reaction of vinyl chloride monomers. This polymer is combined with other components to obtain the required properties for sole materials. PVC soles have many applications in the production of sports shoes, sandals, etc.
Mixing PVC with other substances such as nitrile rubber, PU, etc, provides soles with beneficial properties such as high durability when worn. The ability to resist slipping and cracking depends on the proportion of PVC plasticizer. PVC is a more affordable sole material compared to others.
2.2 Using plastic in sport apparel
Plastic is one of the most popular materials in sportswear manufacturing. Some types with characteristics such as high durability, elasticity, or good moisture absorption are used in this field. Polyester is one of the most popular plastics in sports. It has good water resistance, retains warmth, and dries quickly, making clothes comfortable and flexible for various activities.
Nylon fibers are also commonly used in sportswear due to their elasticity and durability. Nylon is suitable for creating reflective details on clothes and shoes, enhancing safety during outdoor activities at night.
Besides the above two types, Spandex is also one of the most essential plastics in sports. This material is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity. It is a polyether-polyurea copolymer that helps sportswear and footwear conform to the body while maintaining flexibility and comfort.
3. Plastics behind the scenes
Sport rackets
Plastics in sports play a crucial role behind the scenes in the world of sports events. From equipment manufacturing to infrastructure development, plastic silently but significantly contributes to enhancing the overall sports experience. In the field of equipment, plastics in sports are widely used to create lightweight yet durable gear such as helmets, protective padding, and rackets.
These materials provide the necessary strength and flexibility to withstand the rigors of sports activities while ensuring player safety. Furthermore, plastics in sports are an indispensable part of constructing sports facilities and venues. They are used in seating arrangements, flooring systems, and structural components due to their flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and durability.
4. Conclusion
In conclusion, plastics in sports are the unsung heroes, contributing significantly to performance, safety, and accessibility. Their versatility and innovative properties continue to drive advancements in athletic equipment and infrastructure, ensuring athletes can perform at their best while fans enjoy the game in comfort and safety.
5. About EuroPlas
EuroPlas takes pride in being the world's largest filler masterbatch manufacturer, which provides many high-quality plastic products. If you are interested in our products, please visit the link below.
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