The control and understanding of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) is a priority, in a context where environmental and health concerns have become a major issue for modern industry.
This article aims to enlighten readers on the origin, applications, and regulatory implications of these compounds, while highlighting the importance of laboratory analyses to ensure optimal safety.
In this context, YesWeLab offers analytical expertise enabling manufacturers, particularly in the materials and packaging sectors , to carry out rigorous tests that comply with the latest regulatory standards.
Table of Contents
What are PFAS?
Definition and chemical structure of PFAS
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) form a family of over 4,700 synthetic chemical compounds. Their distinguishing characteristic lies in the presence of carbon-fluorine (CF) bonds , considered the strongest in organic chemistry. This structure confers exceptional resistance to thermal, chemical, and biological attack.
PFAS are divided into two main categories:
- Perfluorinated acids (such as PFOA and PFOS ), which are totally fluorinated and particularly stable.
- Polyfluorinated compounds , which contain partially fluorinated chains and are often used as chemical precursors.
Their hydrophobic and oleophobic properties make them ideal compounds for many applications, including textiles, non-stick coatings and food packaging.
Properties and industrial use of PFAS
PFAS possess unique physicochemical characteristics , which explain their widespread industrial use:
- Water and grease resistance → Used in waterproof textiles and food packaging.
- Thermal and chemical stability → Present in firefighting foams and industrial lubricants.
- Low surface tension → Used in non-stick coatings for pans and cooking utensils.
- Compatibility with solvents and polymers → Incorporated into cosmetics and pharmaceutical products.
Thanks to these properties, PFAS are ubiquitous in the food, textile, cosmetics, automotive, electronics, and aerospace industries . However, their widespread use has led to massive environmental contamination , with worrying consequences.
Environmental persistence and bioaccumulation
PFAS are often referred to as eternal pollutants because they do not degrade easily. Unlike other chemicals that can be eliminated through biodegradation or photodegradation, PFAS remain in the environment for decades .
Once released, they contaminate:
- Water : Pollution of groundwater and surface water, leading to exposure through drinking water.
- Air : Atmospheric dispersion, notably via industrial emissions and waste incineration.
- Soils : Presence in sewage sludge and agricultural land, leading to crop contamination.
- Fauna and flora : Accumulation in living organisms, moving up the food chain to humans.
Studies show that more than 95% of the world's population has traces of PFAS in their blood , raising concerns about its health impact.
The main known PFAS molecules
Among the thousands of listed PFAS, some are better known and regulated due to their high toxicity and strong persistence :
- PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) : Used in textiles, carpets, and non-stick coatings. Its ban is being phased out in Europe and the United States.
- PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) : Present in firefighting foams and certain industrial products. Classified as a persistent organic pollutant by the Stockholm Convention.
- PFHxS (perfluorohexanesulfonic acid) : Found in fire extinguishing foams and some technical textiles.
- PFBA (perfluorobutanoic acid) and PFPeA (perfluoropentanoic acid) : short-chain PFAS, sometimes used as a substitute for PFOA, but also presenting environmental risks.
Some industries are seeking to replace long-chain PFAS with shorter-chain alternatives , but studies indicate that these substitutes could be just as persistent and toxic .
Where can PFAS be found?
Presence in everyday consumer products
PFAS are present in many everyday objects , often invisibly. Here are a few examples:
- Food packaging : Sandwich bags, cardboard trays, baking paper.
- Non-stick pans and utensils : Coatings made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) , known as Teflon.
- Cosmetics : Long-lasting foundations, lipsticks, moisturizing creams.
- Textiles : Waterproof clothing, sports shoes, stain-resistant carpets and rugs.
- Firefighting foams : Used on industrial and airport sites.
- Pharmaceutical and medical products : Surgical gloves, catheters, prostheses.
Exposure to PFAS can therefore occur through skin contact, ingestion or inhalation , depending on the uses and materials involved.
Contamination of natural and food environments
PFAS contaminate natural environments , impacting fauna and flora:
- Surface waters and groundwater : Contaminated by industrial discharges and landfill leachate.
- Food : Fish and seafood from polluted areas, vegetables irrigated with contaminated water.
- Meat and dairy products : Bioaccumulation in the tissues of animals exposed via diet.
This food contamination is one of the main sources of human exposure , hence the need for strict analyses on products intended for consumption.
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What are the dangers of PFAS?
Impact of PFAS on human health
Exposure to PFAS is now considered a major health risk . Their bioaccumulation in the human body is concerning because these substances have a long half-life , meaning they remain present in the blood and tissues for several years before being eliminated.
Hormonal disruptions and effects on fertility
PFAS are endocrine disruptors , meaning they can interfere with the hormonal system . Several studies have shown they are involved in:
- A decline in fertility in both men and women, with a decrease in the number and quality of sperm.
- Menstrual cycle irregularities and a longer time it takes to conceive a child.
- Complications during pregnancy , with an increased risk of preeclampsia, premature birth and low newborn weight.
Effects on the immune system
Exposure to PFAS can also weaken the immune response , increasing susceptibility to infections and reducing vaccine effectiveness. Studies have shown that children exposed to PFAS from a young age develop a weaker immune response after vaccination against certain diseases (influenza, hepatitis B).
Risk of cancers and chronic diseases
PFAS are classified as possible human carcinogens. Some epidemiological research has established a link between prolonged exposure to PFAS and an increased risk of several types of cancer:
- Kidney cancer and testicular cancer , for which clear correlations have been established.
- Liver and prostate cancer , due to the effects of PFAS on lipid and hormone metabolism.
- Breast cancer , with a suspected link between exposure to PFAS and changes in breast tissue.
In addition to cancer, PFAS are associated with other chronic diseases such as:
- Metabolic disorders , including an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity.
- Cardiovascular diseases , with negative effects on blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Liver damage , including an increase in liver enzymes and a risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Environmental contamination and affected ecosystems
PFAS do not simply harm human health. Their high chemical stability makes them extremely persistent in the environment, causing widespread contamination of ecosystems.
Presence of PFAS in water and soil
One of the main environmental concerns related to PFAS is their ability to contaminate water resources . These substances are found in:
- Groundwater and surface waters → Pollution from industrial discharges and military sites using firefighting foams.
- Drinking water → Several regions around the world have detected concerning levels of PFAS in water intended for human consumption.
- Soils and sediments → Contaminated by the spreading of sewage sludge rich in PFAS.
Their high mobility allows them to spread rapidly and reach areas far from their emission source, including polar regions , demonstrating their dispersal on a planetary scale.
Bioaccumulation and contamination of wildlife
PFAS accumulate in the food chain, exposing terrestrial and aquatic wildlife to increasing concentrations. They are found in particular in:
- In fish and shellfish → PFAS accumulate in their tissues, which poses a danger to seafood consumers.
- In birds and mammals → Studies have detected high levels of PFAS in the blood and liver of many wild species.
- In livestock → Present in animal feed, PFAS can also contaminate meat, eggs and dairy products.
The effects on wildlife include developmental abnormalities, impaired reproductive functions, and increased mortality .
Mechanisms of exposure to PFAS
PFAS enter the human and animal body via several routes of exposure:
By ingestion
- Contaminated drinking water → One of the major sources of exposure.
- Contaminated food → Fish, meat, dairy products from exposed animals.
- Food packaging treated with PFAS → Migration of chemical substances into fatty or hot foods.
By inhalation
- Domestic and industrial dust → PFAS present in textiles and carpets are released in the form of volatile particles.
- Air pollution → Industrial emissions and incineration of waste rich in PFAS.
Through skin contact
- Cosmetics and creams containing PFAS → Possible absorption through the skin.
- Waterproof clothing and treated textiles → Low risk of transfer through prolonged contact.
Regulations on PFAS in Europe and worldwide
European regulations: a strict and progressive approach
The European Union is currently one of the most advanced players in the regulation of PFAS. Several legislative texts govern their use, their presence in drinking water and their release into the environment .
Restrictions imposed by REACH and the Stockholm Convention
- The REACH regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) imposes a strict evaluation of chemical substances used in European industry.
- PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) has been banned in the EU since 2009, under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants .
- PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) was banned in 2020 , with limited exemptions for certain specific industrial applications.
- In 2023, PFHxS (perfluorohexanesulfonic acid) was also added to the list of prohibited substances .
Standards for drinking water and industrial emissions
The European Union has adopted Directive (EU) 2020/2184 , which sets limit values for the concentration of PFAS in drinking water :
- 0.50 µg/L for all PFAS combined.
- 0.10 µg/L for a list of 20 PFAS of particular concern.
EU member states must adapt their national regulations by 2026 to ensure compliance with these thresholds.
The EU also imposes increased monitoring of industrial discharges through regulations governing classified installations for environmental protection (ICPE) . Industrial companies are subject to regular checks of their effluents and must limit PFAS discharges into water and air .
Proposed global ban on PFAS by 2025
In January 2023, five European countries (Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden) submitted a proposal to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to ban the manufacture, import and use of PFAS in Europe.
This ban would cover more than 10,000 substances and impact numerous industrial sectors. A public consultation was conducted in 2023, and a decision is expected in 2025, with potential implementation as early as 2027.
Regulation in the United States: an evolving framework
The United States has adopted a more fragmented approach to PFAS regulation, with actions at both the federal and state levels .
Federal regulation by the EPA and the FDA
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under the CERCLA (Superfund) .
- In 2023, the EPA proposed a limit of 4 ng/L for PFOA and PFOS in drinking water , one of the strictest thresholds in the world.
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has restricted the use of PFAS in food packaging since 2016, particularly for long-chain substances.
Specific regulations by state
Several US states have adopted their own bans , sometimes stricter than those of the federal government:
- New York (2022) : Ban on food packaging containing intentionally added PFAS .
- California (2023) : Ban on textile products and food packaging containing PFAS .
- Maine (2023) : First total ban on PFAS in all consumer products by 2030.
International Standards and Actions
Other countries are beginning to take similar measures to limit the use of PFAS :
- Canada has added several PFAS to its list of toxic substances and is limiting their presence in drinking water.
- Australia and New Zealand have banned the use of PFAS in firefighting foams .
- Taiwan and South Korea impose strict tests on food packaging and textiles .
Environmental NGOs such as Greenpeace and Générations Futures also play a key role in raising public awareness and calling for stronger regulations .
Consequences for manufacturers and the need for laboratory analyses
Increasingly strict regulations on PFAS have a direct impact on manufacturers , who must:
- Gradually eliminate PFAS from their production chains.
- Monitor the presence of PFAS in their finished products to avoid any regulatory non-compliance.
- Monitor their industrial discharges to limit environmental contamination.
To meet these requirements, laboratory analyses have become essential in order to:
- Detect the presence of PFAS in water, soil, packaging and food products.
- Quantify contamination levels and ensure they comply with regulatory thresholds.
- Verify that the materials and packaging comply with applicable standards.
Companies must therefore work with specialized laboratories capable of performing accurate and reliable analyses.
Why analyze PFAS in the laboratory?
Ensuring compliance with international regulations
New legislation on PFAS imposes increasingly strict limits, particularly in drinking water, industrial discharges, food packaging and consumer products .
The analyses allow us to:
- Check compliance with European regulations (REACH, directive 2020/2184 on drinking water) and American regulations (EPA, FDA).
- Anticipate future bans and avoid the risks of market withdrawal.
- Avoid financial and legal penalties related to exceeding regulatory thresholds.
Manufacturers must therefore ensure that their products and processes meet these requirements , which implies rigorous analytical monitoring .
Preserving the quality and safety of consumer products
Since PFAS are present in many everyday products , manufacturers must analyze their presence to protect consumers .
Food packaging and agri-food products
PFAS are widely used in food packaging for their grease-resistant and waterproofing properties. However, they can migrate into food , exposing consumers to health risks.
Laboratory analyses allow us to:
- Measure the migration of PFAS in food according to European and American standards.
- Check that food packaging complies with current regulations (EC Regulation No. 1935/2004).
- Controlling contamination levels in processed foods and bottled water.
Cosmetics and pharmaceutical products
PFAS are also present in long-lasting cosmetics, nail polishes and some pharmaceutical products .
Analytical tests allow us to:
- Avoid the presence of banned PFAS in formulations.
- Ensuring the safety of products placed on the market.
- Comply with the requirements of organic and ecological certifications.
Controlling environmental contamination and industrial discharges
Industries using PFAS must monitor their emissions to limit water and soil contamination .
Water and soil analysis
PFAS contaminate groundwater and soils , affecting wildlife, plants and the food chain.
Laboratories perform analyses for:
- Quantifying the concentration of PFAS in groundwater, rivers and wastewater treatment plants.
- Identify the sources of pollution in order to implement pollution control solutions..
- Monitor industrial sites classified as SEVESO or ICPE to limit emissions into the environment.
Industrial discharge control
Industries must comply with strict limits on PFAS discharges into wastewater and air.
The analyses allow us to:
- Verify that industrial effluents comply with regulatory thresholds.
- Adapt manufacturing processes to limit PFAS emissions.
- Optimizing the treatment of contaminated waste.
Identify and quantify PFAS to develop alternatives
Laboratory analyses are not only used to control the presence of PFAS , they also help to support manufacturers in the search for alternative solutions .
- Comparison of formulations with and without PFAS to reduce their use.
- Detection of short-chain PFAS used as substitutes and assessment of their environmental impact.
- Assistance in reformulating products to comply with new regulations.
Specialized laboratories work in collaboration with manufacturers to identify environmentally friendly solutions without compromising product quality.
Laboratory methods for analyzing PFAS
Liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is the reference technique for the analysis of PFAS.
Principle of the method
- The samples are extracted and purified before being injected into a chromatographic column .
- The separation of compounds is carried out according to their polarity and their affinity with the stationary phase .
- The PFAS molecules are then detected by mass spectrometry , which allows for specific identification and precise quantification .
Advantages of LC-MS/MS for PFAS analysis
- High sensitivity enabling the detection of concentrations on the order of ng/L in water or µg/kg in solid matrices.
- A key characteristic that allows differentiation between the various PFAS present in the same sample.
- Multi-residue analysis capability , allowing simultaneous detection of several dozen PFAS.
This method is particularly used for the analysis of drinking water, wastewater, soils, food products and materials in contact with food .
Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS)
Gas chromatography-MS is another analytical method used to detect certain volatile PFAS and their precursors.
Principle of the method
- The sample is heated to volatilize the compounds before their separation in a chromatographic column .
- The molecules are then analyzed by mass spectrometry to identify their chemical structure.
Applications of GC-MS for PFAS analysis
- Detection of volatile PFAS present in air and industrial emissions.
- Analysis of PFAS in firefighting foams and cosmetic products.
- Identification of PFAS residues in food packaging.
Although GC-MS is less common than LC-MS/MS , it remains essential for certain types of PFAS not detectable by other techniques.
Method by combustion and detection of adsorbable organic fluorides (AOF)
Analysis of the AOF (Adsorbable Organic Fluorine) index is a complementary technique used to measure the total amount of organic fluorine in a sample .
Principle of the method
- The sample is burned at high temperature , releasing the fluorinated compounds in the form of hydrogen fluoride (HF).
- The released fluoride is captured and quantified by ion chromatography .
Use of the AOF index
- Global monitoring of organic fluoride contamination in wastewater and industrial discharges.
- Indirect detection of the presence of PFAS without specific identification of individual molecules.
- A screening tool to guide further analysis using LC-MS/MS or GC-MS.
HS-GC-MS screening for volatile compounds
Analysis of volatile PFAS can be performed by Screening HS-GC-MS (Headspace Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) , a method used to identify traces of fluorinated compounds in air and liquid matrices .
Specifics of the test
- The sample must be taken in a sealed and inert container to avoid any contamination.
- The limit of quantification (LOQ) varies between 0.1 and 10 mg/L depending on the compounds analyzed .
- The method follows a validated internal protocol , guaranteeing the reproducibility of results.
This technique is particularly used for the analysis of industrial emissions and fluorinated solvents present in certain chemical products.
Sample collection and preparation
Before any analysis, the collection and preparation of samples are essential steps to ensure the reliability of the results.
Requirements for sampling
- Water and liquids → Store in previously rinsed polypropylene or glass bottles , without contact with fluorinated materials.
- Soils and sediments → Samples separated and homogenized to avoid concentration variations.
- Materials and packaging → Cutting and extraction of components likely to contain PFAS.
Extraction and purification techniques
- Solid phase extraction (SPE) → Concentration and purification of PFAS before analysis by LC-MS/MS.
- Liquid-liquid extraction → Separation of PFAS in complex matrices.
- Advanced filtration methods → Removal of interfering particles in water and organic solutions.
Reliability and accreditation of PFAS analyses
PFAS analyses must meet strict quality requirements to ensure accurate and comparable results.
Current standards and accreditations
- ISO 17025 standard → Accreditation of laboratories guaranteeing the reliability of analyses .
- Methods validated by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and the ECHA (European Chemicals Agency).
- European standards on drinking water and industrial discharges (Directive 2020/2184).
Specialized laboratories must follow rigorous protocols and participate in interlaboratory trials to ensure the accuracy and repeatability of results .
YesWeLab: a key partner for PFAS analysis
Expertise in environmental and industrial analyses
YesWeLab offers specialized PFAS analyses adapted to different matrices, allowing manufacturers to monitor their products and emissions.
Analysis of PFAS in water and the environment
PFAS are a major source of groundwater and surface water contamination . YesWeLab offers testing for:
- Water intended for human consumption → Detection and quantification of PFAS according to Directive (EU) 2020/2184.
- Wastewater and industrial effluents → Monitoring of discharges to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
- Soils and sediments → Identification of historical pollution and monitoring of contaminated areas.
- Atmospheric emissions → Control of volatile PFAS released by industrial processes.
Analysis of PFAS in packaging and consumer products
YesWeLab supports manufacturers and distributors in quality control of their products in order to anticipate any regulatory non-compliance.
- Migration tests in food packaging to verify the absence of PFAS transfer into food.
- Analysis of textiles and technical clothing to measure concentrations of perfluorinated substances.
- Detection of PFAS in cosmetics to ensure their compliance with European regulations.
A digital platform to centralize analyses
YesWeLab offers a unique solution enabling manufacturers to manage all their analytical needs via an intuitive digital platform .
Simplified analysis management
- Catalogue of over 10,000 analyses available , including specialized PFAS tests.
- Selection of appropriate tests based on the matrix to be analyzed and regulatory requirements.
- Online ordering and real-time analysis tracking via a user-friendly interface.
YesWeLab offers a unique solution enabling manufacturers to manage all their analytical needs via an intuitive digital platform .
Simplified analysis management
- Catalogue of over 10,000 analyses available , including specialized PFAS tests.
- Selection of appropriate tests based on the matrix to be analyzed and regulatory requirements.
- Online ordering and real-time analysis tracking via a user-friendly interface.
Optimizing lead times and traceability of samples
- Centralized sample management for complete traceability.
- Access to results online , with detailed analytical reports compliant with ISO 17025 standards.
- Optimized turnaround times , thanks to a network of partner laboratories across France and Europe.
Perspectives and alternatives to PFAS
Development of alternative materials
One of the main challenges is finding alternatives to PFAS that can offer similar performance without their harmful effects. Several avenues are currently being explored by industry and scientific research.
Alternatives for food packaging
Food packaging is one of the areas where PFAS are still widely used due to their grease-resistant and waterproofing properties . Several innovative solutions are under development to replace them:
- Biopolymer-based coatings : Use of natural films derived from cellulose, starch or chitosan to protect food from moisture and grease.
- Advanced surface treatments : Application of layers of vegetable wax or natural hydrophobic coatings , guaranteeing performance comparable to PFAS.
- Using parchment paper : A traditional but effective method that prevents the migration of fats without the use of perfluorinated substances.
Substitutes for waterproof textiles and clothing
Technical clothing and outdoor textiles have used PFAS treatments for decades to make them waterproof . Several manufacturers are now investing in more environmentally friendly technologies:
- Fluoride-free polymers : Development of alternative waterproof membranes such as hydrophobic polyurethanes .
- Silicone-based coatings : Use of silicone coatings to protect textiles while maintaining optimal breathability.
- Natural wax-based treatments : Adoption of solutions based on beeswax or paraffin, providing effective water resistance.
Innovation in fire-fighting foams and industrial products
Firefighting foams containing PFAS have long been favored for their effectiveness in extinguishing hydrocarbon fires . However, they are a major source of water and soil contamination . Today, PFAS-free alternative foams are emerging:
- Foams based on biodegradable surfactants offering good extinguishing power without environmental impact.
- Increased use of extinguishing powders , which do not require perfluorinated additives.
- Development of new flame-retardant formulations , validated by international regulations.
In other industries, such as aerospace and electronics, efforts are underway to find alternatives to non-stick coatings and high-performance lubricants containing PFAS.
Pollution control and environmental impact reduction processes
Sites contaminated by PFAS represent a major problem of persistent pollution . In order to limit their impact, several strategies for the remediation and treatment of industrial waste are being implemented.
Techniques for filtering and removing PFAS from water
Because PFAS are highly soluble in water , their removal from water resources is a crucial issue. Several technologies are currently used to filter and capture these contaminants :
- Activated carbon filters : Capture of PFAS through efficient adsorption, used to treat drinking water and industrial effluents.
- Reverse osmosis : Advanced filtration technology that removes more than 99% of PFAS present in water .
- Ion exchangers : Use of specific resins capable of binding perfluorinated molecules and extracting them from wastewater.
Treatment of contaminated soils
Because PFAS adhere strongly to soils , their remediation is particularly complex. Several approaches are currently being tested:
- Advanced oxidation : Use of free radicals to break down perfluorinated molecules.
- Excavation and containment : Moving contaminated soils to specialized storage facilities to prevent their dispersion.
- Bioremediation : Research into bacteria capable of partially degrading PFAS , although this technology is still in the experimental stage.
Commitment from manufacturers and the transition to more sustainable production
Many manufacturers are now making commitments to reduce their reliance on PFAS , aware of regulatory pressures and growing consumer demand for safer products .
Initiatives and commitments of large companies
Several brands have already announced transition plans to gradually eliminate PFAS from their products :
- Textile industry : Companies like Patagonia and Gore-Tex are working to replace fluorinated treatments with environmentally friendly alternatives .
- Cosmetics sector : Makeup and skincare brands committed to organic cosmetics have removed PFAS from their formulations .
- Food industry : Several major fast food chains have banned packaging containing PFAS to address consumer concerns.
PFAS-free certification and labels
Labels guaranteeing the absence of PFAS in products are emerging to help consumers and businesses make more responsible choices:
- OEKO-TEX® label for fluorine-free textiles.
- GreenScreen certification for safe alternatives to PFAS.
- Nordic Swan label for packaging and cosmetics free from perfluorinated substances.
