Analysis of PFAS in Firefighting

Dafo Fomtec offers dedicated packages for this matrix and two target analysis packages are available: PFAS18, covering regulated PFAS (PFOS, PFHxS, PFOA, PFHxA etc.) and other common PFCA, PFSA, and FTS substances; long chain PFCAs C9-C14 and the corresponding related substances. This package covers:

  • Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 (POP Regulation) – Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1203, (EU) 2023/866 and (EU) 2023/1608
  • Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 (REACH Regulation), Regulation (EU) 2021/1297 and (EU) 2021/1297

 PFAS Analysis

Individual PFAS in foam can be determined using so-called “target”analysis (e.g. PFOS and PFOA). TOP (Total Oxidizable Precursors) is a method used to chemically oxidize precursors to the corresponding perfluorinated carboxylic acids (PFCA). TOP can provide information on the types of precursors in the sample as well as an overall quantitative estimate. This information can be valuable when evaluating “related substances” according to the POP and REACH regulations. For target analysis, we have a PFAS18 pack including regulated PFAS (PFOS, PFHxS, PFOA, PFHxA etc.) as well as other common PFCA, PFSA, and FTS substances. A second package contains 45 PFAS and covers additional “simple” precursors as well as AFFF constituents e.g., 6:2 FTAB and DPOSA. Our TOP package comprises the same 18 compounds as the target package and includes the C4–C9 PFCA most frequently formed during TOP oxidation (also for compounds included in the PFAS 45 package). Our recommendation is to perform a target analysis together with the TOP assay; therefore, we have introduced a PFAS18 combo pack for easy ordering. If it is required a PFAS 45 package can be offered, however the corresponding related substances cannot be analyzed with current analytical technology.

Foam sampling for PFAS analysis

We recommend using our 100 mL plastic PFAS bottles. Sample volumes required are 50 ml (min. 20 ml) for concentrated foam Contamination is a very, if not the most important and very frequently occurring error source in PFAS analysis. Contamination can occur at all stages of the whole process of foam samples analytics: The quantification limit for PFAS analysis in firefighting agents typically is 5-10 ppb (µg/kg of agent). These are very low trace concentrations. To avoid false positive analysis results from contamination with PFASs, meticulously clean working during sampling the agent is therefore of the highest importance. Every material that gets in contact with the sample can be a source of contamination: gloves, sampler or other sampling equipment, funnels, tubes, hoses, sample vessels etc. Make sure that no contamination with PFASs of the sample can happen. For that, use completely new equipment for sampling: Sampling vessels, bottles, sampling tools, gloves etc. Pack the finished samples in tight Ziplock bags. Use material that still is original manufacturer packed, and open packaging only directly before using the material for sampling. Use new disposable gloves for every sample.

 

Fomtec Delivery time is estimated to about 10-15 working days after the sample has arrived at Eurofins analytical lab in Sweden.
Express Service can be provided to an extra cost. For express service, always contact Fomtec for confirmation.

Fill out the request below and send with the package of samples to the address below.

Dafo Fomtec AB
PFAS Analysis
Garnisonsgatan 47A
SE-254 66 Helsingborg, Sweden

It is important that you fill out your contact data in order for us to send the reports. Add a MSDS for each foam sample you send, if possible and follow the instructions on how to retrieve the sample. It is of great importance to avoid contamination. Received samples will be retained for two months before disposal.

The PFAS analysis is to establish if the intended foam concentrate complies with the EU legislation listed above. The analytical report will indicate ND – which means not detectable. In other word comply to the specific regulation. Use the link below to fil in the form for your sample: