PFAS
PFAS
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, measured at very low concentrations.
What is PFAS?
PFAS are a large family of synthetic fluorinated compounds used for their water, oil and heat resistance. Their carbon–fluorine bonds are highly stable, which is why they are often described as persistent.
Why test for it?
PFAS are of increasing scientific and regulatory interest in drinking water. Because they are persistent and mobile in water, they are typically investigated at nanogram-per-litre concentrations rather than at the levels used for conventional chemistry.
Where can it come from?
- Industrial and manufacturing discharges
- Firefighting foams used historically at some sites
- Consumer products containing fluorinated coatings
- Landfill leachate and treated sludge applied to land
How is it measured?
PFAS are typically determined by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) using isotopically labelled internal standards. The compound list, sample volume and reporting limits depend on the method selected for the project.
What does my result mean?
Results are reported per compound in ng/L, together with the limit of detection for each analyte. A non-detect means the compound was not measured above the stated detection limit for that method — not that it is absent at any concentration.