The shape of fibers in artificial grass plays a vital role in its durability, response to solar glare, and fiber memory – the ability to rebound to its original shape. While flat, smooth polyethylene fibers are sensitive to temperature changes and exhibit less resilience, more intricate blade shapes, crafted through melting and molding into continuous profiles, offer heightened toughness. These fibers are shaped using a die that molds the polymer into a specific form as it cools. Initially, these complex fibers were too costly for widespread use but have become more accessible over time. The evolution of turf blades commenced with the creation of Diamond blades, followed by StemGrass-shaped turf, significantly enhancing resilience, durability, and the aesthetic appeal of synthetic surfaces.
In 2015, Turf and Ivy ushered in a new era with the debut of W-shaped synthetic yarn, renowned for its exceptional heat-retaining properties. The W-shape, resembling the English letter "W" with two midribs and four main facets, effectively reflects solar glare and disperses sunlight in various directions. This breakthrough rendered synthetic grass more suitable for hot, arid climates, where managing heat retention is paramount. This led to the emergence of the "KoolMax" technology, which, due to its affordability, versatility, and lifelike appearance, swiftly became a standout in the synthetic grass industry. The popularity of W-shaped turf surged, particularly for residential applications.
The light-diffusing properties of W-shaped fibers mean they retain significantly less heat, slowing down solar energy transmission as it passes through the blade. Controlled tests have demonstrated that Turf and Ivy's W-Blade designed grass remains up to 15 degrees cooler than other synthetic turfs available in the market. Coupled with its non-glossy, authentic appearance and ability to endure heavy foot traffic, this type of artificial turf excels in commercial applications, surpassing other varieties.