ABSTRACT
The playing quality of a bunker sand is described in terms of ball lie, the extent of compaction of the sand, the degree of crusting, ball plugging and the firmness of footing.
A survey sent to golfers and golf course superintendents across Australia identified these criteria as the most important properties in a bunker sand. These criteria are quantified by laboratory analysis of 17 bunker sands collected from around Australia.
Evaluation of playing characteristics of a bunker sand is made, with emphasis on the physical characteristics of particle size distribution (PSD), particle shape and packing density. These characteristics exert the dominant influence over bunker sand in terms of playability and are significant indicators of sand performance. Packing density and PSD predominantly affect ball plugging and crusting. Large values of Pmax (maximum packing density) and a widely graded PSD are associated with a higher crusting incidence and a lower plugging incidence respectively. Particle shape predominantly affects angle of repose and the crusting incidence, with low values of roundness and sphericity associated with higher angles of repose and crusting.
