Key Takeaways & Executive Findings
- •• • Achieved method detection limits of 0.2–0.6 ng/L and quantification limits of 0.8–2.4 ng/L for 22 PFAS, enabling trace-level monitoring in surface water. • • Linear range of 1–250 µg/L with R² > 0.995, providing a wide dynamic range for both low-level and high-concentration samples. • • Recoveries of 76.4%–139% in surface water and 85.3%–139% in blank water, with RSD < 15% (n=6), ensuring accuracy and precision for regulatory compliance. • • The novel methanol extraction of particulate matter eliminates negative bias from particle adsorption, increasing recovery rates by up to 20% compared to conventional methods, critical for total PFAS assessment.
Abstract
A robust analytical method was developed for the simultaneous determination of 22 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in surface water using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). To address the loss of particle-bound PFAS, the method incorporates a methanol extraction step for particulate matter retained on filters, followed by combining the extract with the filtrate. Samples were then concentrated and purified using weak anion exchange (WAX) solid-phase extraction (SPE) cartridges. After nitrogen evaporation, the residue was reconstituted in methanol/water (8:2, v/v) and filtered prior to analysis. Quantification was performed using isotope dilution. The method exhibited excellent linearity (R² > 0.995) over a concentration range of 1–250 µg/L. Method detection limits ranged from 0.2 to 0.6 ng/L, and method quantification limits from 0.8 to 2.4 ng/L. Recoveries in blank water and surface water matrices were 85.3%–139% and 76.4%–127%, respectively, with relative standard deviations (RSD, n=6) below 15%. Compared to conventional methods without particulate extraction, this approach significantly improved recovery rates in surface water, effectively eliminating negative bias caused by particle adsorption. The method is sensitive, accurate, and reliable, making it suitable for routine monitoring of PFAS in surface water.
1. Introduction
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent environmental contaminants characterized by strong carbon-fluorine bonds, imparting exceptional stability and resistance to degradation. Their widespread use in industrial and consumer products has led to ubiquitous contamination of water bodies, posing significant risks to ecosystems and human health. Conventional analytical methods often overlook PFAS adsorbed onto suspended particulate matter, leading to underestimation of total concentrations. This methodological gap is particularly critical in surface water, where particulate matter can harbor a substantial fraction of PFAS, especially for long-chain compounds.
The developed method addresses this bottleneck by integrating a methanol extraction step for particulate matter, effectively capturing both dissolved and particulate phases. This approach not only improves recovery rates but also provides a more accurate representation of PFAS contamination. By combining solid-phase extraction with UHPLC-MS/MS and isotope dilution, the method achieves high sensitivity and selectivity, meeting the rigorous demands of environmental monitoring. The inclusion of particulate extraction is a significant advancement over existing protocols, ensuring reliable quantification of total PFAS in surface water.
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TANG Shi, SUN Tao, SUN Pan, CHEN Jie (2026). Determination of 22 Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Surface Water by Solid-Phase Extraction with Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry. Journal of Environmental Engineering Technology. https://doi.org/10.13205/j.hjgc.202604002
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the advantage of including a methanol extraction step for particulate matter in PFAS analysis?
The methanol extraction step recovers PFAS adsorbed onto suspended particles, which are often missed by conventional filtration-based methods. This reduces negative bias and improves recovery rates by up to 20% in surface water, ensuring more accurate total PFAS quantification.
How does the method ensure accuracy and precision for regulatory compliance?
The method uses isotope dilution for quantification, achieving recoveries of 76.4%–139% in surface water and 85.3%–139% in blank water, with RSD < 15% (n=6). These performance metrics meet typical regulatory requirements for trace analysis.
What are the detection and quantification limits of this method?
Method detection limits range from 0.2 to 0.6 ng/L, and quantification limits from 0.8 to 2.4 ng/L, allowing detection of PFAS at sub-ng/L levels, which is essential for monitoring drinking water sources.
Can this method be applied to other water matrices, such as wastewater or groundwater?
While developed for surface water, the method's principles are applicable to other aqueous matrices. However, matrix effects may vary, and validation would be required for each new matrix to ensure accuracy and precision.
What is the linear range and sensitivity of the method?
The method exhibits linearity from 1 to 250 µg/L with R² > 0.995, covering a wide concentration range. This dynamic range allows quantification of both low-level ambient concentrations and higher contaminated samples without dilution.
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