PFAS analysis solutions are systems designed to detect and measure per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as 'forever chemicals' because of their persistence in the environment and human body. PFAS are found in a variety of products. Testing for PFAS is crucial for industries focused on environmental monitoring, food safety, and public health.
These solutions rely on advanced instruments such as liquid chromatography (LC) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS), which are highly sensitive and can detect trace levels of PFAS. Techniques like solid phase extraction (SPE) and QuEChERS are often used to prepare samples, ensuring that PFAS can be isolated from complex materials without interference from other substances.
PFAS testing is usually guided by standardized methods set by regulatory bodies like the EPA and ISO, which ensure consistent and accurate results. Many analysis solutions come with pre-validated workflows, making it easier for laboratories to start testing quickly and reliably. Specialized software is also used to process the data, track results, and maintain quality control, especially in labs that handle large volumes of samples.
Despite their effectiveness, PFAS testing presents challenges, such as detecting very low levels of contamination and preventing cross-contamination in the lab, as PFAS can be found in common laboratory supplies. Labs need to follow strict protocols to avoid these issues during testing.
Turnkey PFAS analysis solutions provide a comprehensive, ready-to-use package that includes the necessary instruments, methods, and support. This makes it easier for laboratories to implement PFAS testing while ensuring regulatory compliance.
To conclude, PFAS analysis solutions are critical for accurately detecting and measuring PFAS in various samples, supporting environmental safety, food security, and public health initiatives as the concern over PFAS contamination continues to grow.
PFAS Analysis Solutions FAQs
What types of samples can be analyzed using Waters PFAS analysis solutions?
Waters PFAS analysis solutions support a broad range of complex sample types, including drinking water, groundwater, surface water, soil, sediment, biosolids, food, biota, serum, and cosmetic products. These workflows are developed to meet stringent regulatory requirements and support ultra-trace quantification, even at single parts-per-quadrillion (ppq) levels. With targeted extraction methods and application-specific LC-MS/MS solutions, Waters enables laboratories to address both known and emerging PFAS in diverse matrices, helping meet the growing demand for environmental and public health testing with precision and confidence.
Which Waters systems are recommended for PFAS quantitation and screening?
For high-sensitivity quantitation of PFAS, the Xevo TQ Absolute tandem quadrupole mass spectrometer is recommended, offering exceptional performance for regulated methods like EPA 533 and Draft 1633. For screening and identification of unknown or emerging PFAS, the Xevo G3 QTof provides qualitative and quantitative capabilities with enhanced TofMRM and high-resolution detection. The SELECT SERIES Cyclic IMS adds ion mobility separation to resolve PFAS isomers and enhance compound identification. Together with the ACQUITY Premier LC system, these platforms deliver robust, end-to-end workflows for PFAS analysis in environmental, food, and biological samples.
Which industries benefit most from Waters PFAS solutions?
Waters PFAS solutions are used across a range of industries where accurate detection and quantification of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are critical. Key sectors include environmental testing (drinking water, wastewater, and soil), food safety, cosmetics and personal care, and pharmaceuticals. These workflows support both compliance-driven testing and investigative research, enabling labs to meet evolving regulatory limits and screen for a wide array of PFAS compounds. Academic and government institutions also benefit from Waters' high-sensitivity systems and data tools for non-targeted screening, risk assessment, and contaminant identification.
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