Dosage of perfluorinated compounds (including PFOA and PFOS, etc.)

Perfluorinated, perfluoroalkyl, and polyfluoroalkyl substances , known collectively as PFAS , comprise more than 10,000 synthetic fluorinated compounds, the most studied of which are PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate) . These molecules are used for their non-stick, water-repellent, and heat-resistant properties in food packaging, textiles, cosmetics, fire-fighting foams, technical coatings, and industrial polymers.

Due to their environmental persistence , bioaccumulation and potential toxicity , the measurement of PFAS has become a major regulatory requirement, particularly within the framework of the REACH , the POPs (Persistent Organic Pollutants) regulation and Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 on food contact materials (FCM) .

Principle and operation of the method

The analysis of PFAS is primarily carried out by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) . This method allows the simultaneous detection and quantification of numerous trace fluorinated compounds in complex matrices such as water, soil, food extracts, or polymeric materials.

Depending on the matrix, a preliminary step of pre-concentration and purification by solid-phase extraction (SPE) is carried out to eliminate interferences. Chromatographic separation then allows the different PFAS to be isolated according to their polarity, while detection by mass spectrometry ensures specific identification based on characteristic ion transitions (MRM).

This approach guarantees a very low detection limit (on the order of ng/L or ng/g) and high reproducibility , suitable for regulatory and environmental control needs.

Analytical performance and related analyses

LC-MS/MS and GC-MS methods allow for precise quantification of the most regulated PFAS, including:

• PFOA (CAS 335-67-1)
• PFOS (CAS 45298-90-6)
• PFNA, PFHxA, PFHxS, PFDA, PFUnDA , among others.

For a complete characterization or migration assessment in materials, this analysis can be combined with other services from the YesWeLab catalog, such as:

• the measurement of bisphenol A,
• the dosage of BPS and BPF
• the dosage of BADGE and BFDGE ,
• phthalate dosage,
• or the analysis of heavy metals, which are often sought jointly in environmental and food matrices.

These additional analyses allow for a comprehensive assessment of the chemical and environmental conformity of products and materials.

Applications and areas of use

PFAS testing is applicable in many industrial and regulatory contexts:

• Human food and food contact materials : PFAS migration control in packaging, non-stick coatings and utensils.
• Environment : monitoring of surface water, drinking water, soil, sediments and industrial effluents.
• Materials and polymers : verification of the absence of PFOA and PFOS in fluorinated coatings, technical textiles and flame retardant foams.
• Nutraceuticals and animal feed : contamination control in raw materials, extracts and enriched formulations.

This analysis is also relevant for monitoring recycled materials and sensitive supply chains, within the framework of new European requirements for restricting PFAS (phased-out ban by 2030).

The advantages of the YesWeLab service

YesWeLab relies on a network of partner laboratories accredited to ISO 17025 and COFRAC standards , specializing in ultra-trace detection of PFAS and organofluorinated compounds. Each project is assigned to the most suitable laboratory based on the matrix, the method, and the regulatory thresholds targeted.

Thanks to its digital platform , YesWeLab simplifies the management of analyses: quote requests, sample submissions, online tracking, and rapid results delivery. Since 2020, numerous industrial, agri-food, and environmental players have trusted YesWeLab for their chemical and regulatory compliance checks .

For any specific needs in the dosage of perfluorinated substances, contact our scientific team to obtain a personalized quote and support tailored to your sector of activity.