Cork Granules for Artificial Grass Infill: A Natural Alternative

Artificial grass has come a long way in replicating the look and feel of natural turf. Yet beneath the blades, infill plays a crucial role in performance, safety, and longevity. Traditionally, rubber or sand has been used, but in recent years, cork granules have emerged as a 100% natural, environmentally friendly alternative.

At Corkbark UK, we focus on granules sized 2-5 mm, which are perfectly suited for artificial grass infill. Here, we explore why cork works so well, what to consider when choosing it, and its benefits compared to traditional infill materials.

What Makes Cork Granules a Good Infill?

Cork is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees, which naturally regenerate after each harvest, making it a sustainable material. Granules produced from cork are lightweight, elastic, and resilient, which makes them suitable for sports surfaces, playgrounds, and landscaping applications.

When used as infill for artificial turf, cork granules provide:

• Shock Absorption: Cork’s natural elasticity reduces impact on joints and tendons, making it ideal for football pitches and multi-sport surfaces.

• Temperature Regulation: Cork absorbs heat less than rubber, keeping surfaces cooler on sunny days. Some studies suggest surfaces can be up to 30% cooler than rubber-filled pitches.

• Odourless Play: Unlike rubber, cork infill does not emit unpleasant smells during warm weather.

• Environmental Benefits: Cork is biodegradable, FSC-certified, and supports carbon sequestration in cork oak forests.

Granule Size and Density: Key Considerations

For infill purposes, granule size and density are crucial. Our 2-5 mm granules strike a balance between stability and performance. Smaller granules (around 2 mm) tend to settle into the turf more densely, providing better support for the artificial blades. Larger granules (closer to 5 mm) improve cushioning and help maintain surface elasticity over time.

Density matters too:

• Lower-density cork (around 100-120 kg/m³): Soft, elastic, and less prone to crumbling. Ideal for cushioning and joint protection, but slightly lighter, which may affect ball bounce.

• Higher-density cork (>200 kg/m³): Heavier, more cost-effective, but can be less resilient and more brittle.

The 2-5 mm size range works well for a mix of performance and durability, offering a natural feel while keeping maintenance manageable.

Advantages Over Traditional Infill

1. Natural and Sustainable: Unlike synthetic rubber, cork is fully biodegradable and comes from a renewable source.

2. Cooler Surface: Cork’s thermal properties prevent overheating of artificial grass.

3. Joint-Friendly: Low energy restitution makes play less stressful on players’ joints.

4. Odourless and Clean: No chemical smell or off-gassing, even in hot conditions.

5. Fire Resistant: Cork naturally resists ignition, providing a safer play surface.

While cork granules may need topping up more frequently than rubber due to natural wear, the environmental and performance benefits often outweigh this minor drawback.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

• Initial Application: Spread evenly across the turf using a brush or infill spreader to ensure uniform support.

• Top-Up Frequency: Depending on usage, cork infill may require topping up every 1-2 years.

• Cleaning: Cork infill does not trap odours or harmful chemicals, so routine maintenance is simple.

The Natural Choice for a Healthier, Sustainable Turf

As concerns over microplastics and environmental impact grow, cork granules provide a compelling alternative for artificial grass infill. Lightweight, durable, and joint-friendly, cork supports a safe and comfortable playing experience while reducing the ecological footprint.

At Corkbark UK, we supply high-quality 2-5 mm cork granules for infill, produced sustainably in Portugal. If you’re considering cork for your artificial turf project, our team can provide guidance on selecting the right density and quantity for your needs.

Discover the natural benefits of cork for your turf - sustainable, safe, and surprisingly versatile. Shop cork granules here.