Artificial turf is a low maintenance all-weather alternative to natural turf [1] . However, it was found that surfaces with synthetic grass produced more abrasion injuries (friction burn) than natural grass [2]. This problem could be overcome in the late 1990s by introducing so-called third-generation artificial turf [3]. Here the former polyamide (PA) yarn is replaced by polyolefin monofilaments supported by rubber granules [4, 5].

The currently used rubber infill, obtained by grinding tires, can cause environmental risks [6]. Thus, and due to economic and ecological reasons, artificial turf without infill is more favorable. A problem that has to be addressed when omitting the supporting rubber is that polyolefin monofilaments tend to permanent deformation.

On the other hand, PA fibers are known for their excellent resilience [7]. Keeping in mind that PA fibers - other than polyolefins - are attested to provoke abrasion injuries, a bi-component fiber with a PA core and a polyolefin sheath is expected to render a robust, skin-friendly artificial turf.

The goal of this work was to develop a bicomponent monofilament with optimized cross-section and material combination to maximize resilience while minimizing risk of skin abrasion, in order to achieve artificial grass for sports flooring that resembles natural turf with respect to playability and appearance.