Tools for the Characterization of PFAS in Wastewater

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

Prepared by J. Thorn
Eurofins Lancaster laboratories Environmental Testing, LLC, 2425 New Holland Pike, Lancaster, PA, 17607, United States


Contact Information: [email protected]; 781-710-9664

ABSTRACT

With the publication and availability of new test methods, expanded analyte lists for new PFAS compounds, the development of in-house methodology for novel analyte groups, and non-specific screening methods there is the potential for a tremendous amount of data available. With the variety of results that can be determined from a single sample, how does the end user sort through results?
The intent of this presentation is to take a set of wastewater samples through several commercially available PFAS methods, including published methods that are recommended for use for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, like draft EPA 1633 and draft EPA 1621.
Methods used for these samples include:
• Targeted PFAS using EPA 1633,
• short chain PFAS utilizing an in-house methodology for ultra-short chain PFAS,
• Fluorotelomer Alcohols (FTOH), Fluorotelomer Acrylates (X:2FTOAcr), and Fluorotelomer Acetates (X:2FTOAc) utilizing an in-house method,
• Total Oxidizable Precursor (TOP) results utilizing EPA 1633 for post-oxidation results,
• Adsorbable Organic Fluorine (AOF) by draft EPA 1621, and
• Total Organic Fluorine (TOF) by Combustion Ion Chromatography (CIC).
Results and discussion – results from each analytical method are compiled and discussed regarding data usability as well as applicability of each method to wastewater samples. This includes potential strengths and weaknesses in each method as well as potential challenges with the methods from a laboratory point of view. Results discussed regarding potential correlation between different methodologies.