Comparing methods for testing PFAS in solid matrices: USAEPA 1633, USFDA C-010.03, & European Union Reference Laboratory
Extraction protocols and analytical methods have been utilized and revised for detecting Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in aqueous matrices since 2013. The toxicity and persistence of PFAS drove the evolution of drinking water methods and initiated the process to regulate PFAS in solid matrices. The US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) published a single lab validation study in 2021 for Method 1633 and released 1633A in December 2024. This method monitors 40 PFAS targets in fish tissues, soils, biosolids, and wastewater. During that time, the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) released a single lab validation in April 2024. This study monitors 30 PFAS targets in different foodstuffs. In April 2023, the European Commission published Regulation (EU) 2023/915, which sets guidelines on maximum levels for 4 target PFAS analytes in food. In response to these guidelines, the European Union Reference Laboratory (EURL) developed 2 separate sample preparation methods for the determination of 33 PFAS analytes in food of animal and plant origin. Through a simplified and automated workflow, the Biotage® Lysera, TurboVap® LV, and Extrahera™ HV-5000 provide efficient sample homogenization, liquid extraction, solid phase extraction, and solvent concentration that can be applied to all three techniques.
This comparison study outlines techniques developed by the USEPA, USFDA, and EURL for testing PFAS in solid matrices. Additionally, this work outlines a simple sample preparation technique that enables high throughput processing of samples while maintaining exceptional data quality. Advantages of this workflow include elimination of manual transfer steps, complete preparation of up to 24 samples in less than four hours, and minimal cleaning required between sample batches. In conclusion, this automated workflow offers a highly efficient and reliable solution for PFAS analysis in solid samples for each technique described.
