High Precision LC-MS/MS Analysis of PFAS

Robust quantification using YMC-Triart C18 and automated online SPE column-switching

Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) combine high thermal and chemical stability with industrial versatility. Their molecular structure, based on carbon-fluorine bonds, drives their persistence in environmental and biological systems. PFAS are found in applications requiring repellency and resistance – such as coated cookware, treated textiles and high-gloss print media. More than 4,000 compounds are commercially available, all synthetic in origin.

Due to their resistance to degradation, PFAS are classified as persistent organic pollutants (POPs). These substances accumulate in human tissue and bloodstream, entering the body via contaminated food, water or air. As some PFAS are linked to potential carcinogenic effects, regulatory authorities have lowered the accepted daily intake for selected compounds. Analytical methods with high sensitivity and reproducibility are therefore indispensable.

Quantitative analysis of 28 PFAS compounds using automated SPE and YMC-Triart C18

The method described in this Application Note enables precise and efficient determination of 28 PFAS in human serum, following the approach published by Nakayama et al. An automated solid phase extraction (SPE) system is coupled with online column-switching LC-MS/MS. Ion-exchange scrubber columns downstream of LC pumps A, C and D ensure the suppression of background contamination. The YMC-Triart C18 column delivers outstanding separation performance, making it the analytical core of this setup.

Reference:

S.F. Nakayama et al, J. Chrom. A, 2020, 1618:460933.