Global Inter-Laboratory Evaluation of PFAS Detection Consistency Using Precleaned Polystyrene/Divinylbenzene Resin

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

Prepared by J. Ross, J. Fera, J. Walters
MilliporeSigma, 595 N Harrison Rd, Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, 16823, United States


Contact Information: [email protected]; 814-321-8074

ABSTRACT

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) pose significant environmental concerns due to their persistence. This study evaluates the reliability of PFAS detection through a global inter-laboratory assessment, focusing on background contamination of a polystyrene/divinylbenzene resin, XAD-2, as listed in EPA method OTM-45. Multiple laboratories participated in measuring PFAS using identical lots of precleaned resin.

The resin lots were cleaned and distributed for analysis, and control blanks were processed to evaluate consumable exposure contamination levels. Each laboratory employed its own extraction protocols, resulting in a possible variability and a lack of standardization. Furthermore, differing PFAS standards led to inconsistencies in targeted compound identification across the laboratories.

This analysis aims to assess the reproducibility of PFAS detection among international laboratories and to underscore the standardization of the sample preparation and analytical conditions to enhance result consistency. Key findings will demonstrate the critical role of pre-cleaned XAD-2 resin in effectively monitoring and quantifying PFAS and other air pollutants. By incorporating a standardized pre-cleaned XAD-2 for analysis, this study seeks to improve the accuracy and reliability of PFAS analyses, thereby supporting regulatory compliance and environmental assessments.