Posts Tagged ‘athletes safety’
Rubber Mulch-Key to athlete’s safety
What do sports fields, punching bags, Equestrian arena, playgrounds and MMA mats all have in common? What keeps athletes from getting very serious injuries? Usually made from recycled tires, rubber mulch has become one of athlete’s most important safety equipment but usually goes unnoticed. Its shock absorption quality which is better than wood, gravel and sand is the very thing that minimizes athletes’ injuries by breaking their falls and its resilient surface ensures an overall safe sport environment. Exactly how is this vital substance made?
It takes approximately 80 old tires to create one square foot of rubber mulching. After collecting the tires, the rubber needs to be made into a granular substance retaining its elastic and intuitive qualities, a process called devulcanization. This involves separating the tiny wires and fibers intertwined with the rubber and the mulch (rubber) which is the bulk of the whole process. Magnets are employed but aren’t 100% effective and chemicals need to be used. The rubber is then treated with heat, chemicals and softening agents to gain the elasticity and insulation required for the intended usage.