Advanced Screening Techniques for Total Fluorine in Environmental Samples

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in the Environment
Poster Presentation

Prepared by J. Gantt, S. J
Analytik Jena, 14525 KIRBY DR, HOUSTON, Texas, 77047, United States


Contact Information: [email protected]; 346-399-0028

ABSTRACT

From cookware to carpets, Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have become pervasive in the average consumer’s life. However, until recently, scrutiny of the bioaccumulative nature of these chemicals, as well as their thermal and mechanical stability, this class of synthetic fluorocarbons had gone unmonitored. Over the past two years, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has intensified efforts to establish regulations aimed at reducing these "forever chemicals," placing laboratories in a challenging position as they navigate evolving testing requirements. Given the vast number of PFAS compounds, analyzing them individually is time-consuming and resource-intensive, requiring labs to develop new protocols quickly. Utilizing a continuum source AAS and automated adsorption technology, two solutions will be presented to support customers in the rapid screening of AOF and EOF parameters, as well as metal content. The discussion will cover sample preparation techniques to minimize interfering compounds and strategies for handling different matrices in the analysis of these target compounds.