Introduction to ETPU Granules: A New Option for Playground Sub-Base Systems
Product Background & Application
The ETPU granules we supply are sourced from BASF Infinergy (non-prime grade) and are not produced in-house. After careful selection and performance evaluation, we apply them as sub-base material for children’s playgrounds. While this grade is not intended for high-performance shoe soles, it has proven to be highly stable and cost-effective in outdoor ground installations.
Thanks to its competitive price and solid performance, market demand continues to grow. Our monthly supply capacity reaches around 8 tons, and it’s still not enough to meet the full demand.
Key Features
High Temperature Resistance: With a tolerance up to 150°C, ETPU won’t deform, collapse, or hydrolyze under typical conditions.
Stable & Safe: Designed for soft fall surfaces, it provides stable performance and a comfortable surface when combined with PU binders.
Flexible Sizing & Aesthetic Options: Various colors and grain sizes are available to match different site designs and safety needs.
Common Sizes & Application Suggestions
2-4mm: Ideal for 8-12mm base layer thickness
4-6mm: Most common size, suitable for 10-20mm thickness
5-8mm: Typically used in 40mm surfaces under school equipment zones
The coarser the granule, the easier it is to trowel and spread. For standard playground designs, 20mm ETPU sub-base + 10mm EPDM top layer is often used internationally.
New System Structure (Complies with HIC Standards)
EPDM 15mm + ETPU 75mm (Total thickness: 90mm)
Meets international HIC shock absorption standards
Application Quantity & Ratio
Recommended quantity: 0.15kg per m² per 1mm thickness
Binder ratio: ETPU : PU = 1 : 4.5
Product Longevity
Based on BASF Infinergy ETPU data and usage in real-world projects, even as non-prime grade, this material still demonstrates superior performance:
>55% rebound rate for long-lasting elasticity
Wide temperature tolerance: Performs well from -20°C to above +40°C
High resilience: Excellent anti-fatigue and compressive recovery
When installed correctly and maintained well, the estimated lifespan is 15–20 years, possibly even longer in favorable conditions.
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