1. Scope

1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers the determination of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in solid matrices by solvent extraction, filtering, separation using liquid chromatography (LC) and detection with tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). These analytes are extracted from solid test specimens or subsamples with basic water and methanol then qualitatively and quantitatively determined by this test method. Quantitation is by selected reaction monitoring (SRM) or sometimes referred to as multiple reaction monitoring (MRM).
1.1.1 This method measures specific nonvolatile and semi-volatile PFAS compounds readily leached or soluble under the conditions of the extraction.
1.1.2 This test method does not measure volatile PFAS or PFAS in the form of fluoropolymers such as fluorinated organic compounds that may be contained in or polymerized as plastic products.
1.2. Depending on data usage, use of this test method may modify this test method but limit to modifications that improve performance while still meeting or exceeding the method quality acceptance criteria.
1.2.1 The concentration of PFAS extracted is defined by the sampling and extraction process, therefore, modifications to the solvents, ratio of solvent to sample, or the extraction process may change the result, and if undertaken are required to be reported and documented as changes to the test method.
1.3 This method has been applied to specific products that include food packaging materials, textiles materials used in apparel, upholstery, carpet, and similar items in addition to dust. Other similar matrices may be applicable. Use Practice E2935 or similar statistical tests to confirm that any modifications produce equivalent results on non-interfering samples. In addition, use Guide E2857 or equivalent statistics to re-validate the modified test.
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Keywords

teflon; PFOS; PFOA; plastics; fluoropolymers; organic fluorine; TOF

Rationale

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (Commission or CPSC) has published a request for information on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) used in commerce or potentially used in consumer products, potential exposures associated with the use of PFAS in consumer products, and potential human health effects associated with exposures to PFAS from their use in consumer products. While the use of PFOS and PFOA is regulated in commercial products, other PFAS are being created to replace them. These products can leach chemicals and be ingested. PFAS products in landfills and factories producing PFAS products can contaminate nearby air, water and soil. Several states and countries have banned or set maximum limits for PFAS in various consumer goods, however, there are no standardized methods that regulators, manufacturers, and commercial laboratories can follow to ensure consistent results.

The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.