Automated Sample Preparation for PFAS in Soils Prior to LC-MS/MS as a Fast Screening ProcedureAutomation & Innovation for Sample Preparation
Oral Presentation
Prepared by S. Choyke1, B. Van Middlesworth2, A. Minett2, C. Meyers1
1 - Eurofins Environment Testing, 4955 Yarrow St, Suite 110, Arvada, CO, 80004, United States
2 - ePrep, North America, 2820 Shadelands Dr, Suite 130, Walnut Creek, CA, 94598, United States
Contact Information: [email protected]; 717-663-9234
ABSTRACT
Environmental screening for high levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is crucial due to the unique role of soil as a reservoir for these compounds. A novel, rapid, and automated screening method for PFAS in soils has been developed and validated using North American soils. This method involves extracting soils using a shaker with basic methanol, followed by filtration and dilution before analysis via liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Isotope dilution analytes are added prior to extraction for internal quantitation.
The ePrep ONE is a robotic sample preparation workstation equipped with PFAS-free syringes and tubing to provide the lowest available reporting limits. The method's performance was evaluated based on recovery rates, reproducibility, and the speed of extraction. The ePrep ONE extraction procedure met recovery limits from ASTM -D8535-23, had low background PFAS, and minimal carryover for highly contaminated soils. Additionally, the speed of extraction and “hands-off” time was notably improved, allowing for rapid screening of numerous samples in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional manual methods.
This automated approach not only streamlines the screening process but also reduces the potential for human error, making it a robust tool for environmental monitoring of PFAS in soil. The implementation of this method can facilitate large-scale environmental assessments and contribute to better understanding and management of PFAS contamination in soil environments.
