Vivaturf Rugby Union Traction Engineering

For rugby union applications, Vivaturf’s non-infill turf is configured to support controlled traction, repeated loading, and stable outdoor performance.

3.1 Fiber structure

Vivaturf uses a 4D spiral profiled fiber design with a nominal cross-sectional angle of 30°, intended to align more closely with rugby players’ planting and push-off mechanics. The fiber surface incorporates an alternating micro-groove texture that increases contact area and helps produce a more uniform friction profile.

Key fiber-related reference values from your source include:

• Fiber length: 45–55 mm
• Fiber linear density: 9,000–11,000 dtex
• Fiber thickness: 0.32–0.35 mm
• Fiber density: 13,000–16,000 tufts/m²
• Surface friction coefficient: 0.83–0.88
• Fiber breaking strength: ≥38 N per filament
• Elongation at break: ≥45%
• Recovery speed after compression: ≤0.3 s
• Anti-flattening retention after 20,000 high-frequency load cycles: ≥98%

These values are intended to create enough grip for braking and directional change while still allowing natural release.

3.2 Tufting and angle control

Vivaturf combines high-density tufting with a mixed straight/curled yarn arrangement and controls the average fiber lay angle to around 15°. This is meant to improve traction without making the surface overly aggressive underfoot.

Additional structural references include:

• Tufting uniformity: ≥99.5%
• Tuft spacing: 22–24 mm
• Surface flatness tolerance during tufting: ≤0.3 mm/m

This supports more consistent traction from zone to zone across the field.

3.3 Backing system

The rugby-focused backing uses a composite anti-slip construction that combines:

• a high-stability structural layer
• anti-slip particulate integration within the backing system
• an elastic cushioning layer

Reference performance values include:

• Backing thickness: ≥3.0 mm
• Backing anti-slip coefficient: ≥0.80
• Tensile strength: ≥22 MPa
• Peel strength: ≥3.2 N/mm
• Base adhesion / fit: ≥99.8%
• Water permeability: ≥8 L/(m²·min)

This helps the turf stay stable on the base while also supporting wet-weather traction and energy attenuation.