Testing PFAS in Biosolids: From Sample Preparation to Interference Separation
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large class of synthetic compounds valued for their chemical stability and resistance to water and oil. Widely used in industrial processes, firefighting foams, and consumer products, PFAS have become persistent contaminants in both industrial and municipal waste streams. As a result, wastewater utilities and industrial dischargers face increasing pressure to detect and manage PFAS in wastewater and biosolids.
These matrices are highly variable, ranging from liquid influent and effluent with suspended solids to partially or fully dried biosolids. This variability can significantly impact extraction efficiency, reproducibility, and overall method robustness.
In this webinar, we will explore key strategies laboratories use to overcome matrix challenges, including advanced sample preparation, isotope dilution with extracted internal standards, and improved chromatographic separation.
Understanding matrix complexity is essential for producing reliable data. Depending on the sample, additional steps may be required to meet state reporting limits or project-specific data quality objectives. Join us to learn how robust analytical approaches can deliver confident results, even in the most challenging wastewater and biosolid samples.
By attending this webinar, you will:
- Gain a clear understanding of how sample matrix variability impacts PFAS analysis in wastewater and biosolids, and the key factors that influence data quality.
- Learn practical strategies, including sample preparation and analytical techniques, to improve robustness and reproducibility.
- Receive guidance on producing defensible results that meet regulatory and project-specific requirements.
Who should attend?
- Environmental and commercial testing laboratories performing PFAS analysis
- Wastewater utilities and municipal laboratories managing PFAS compliance
- Industrial facilities and consultants responsible for PFAS monitoring and treatment
- Regulatory agencies and researchers focused on environmental contaminants and water quality
Presenter: Sarah Choyke, PhD (Technical Director, Eurofins Environment Testing, Denver, Colorado, USA)
Sarah Choyke brings over a decade of experience in environmental analysis with expertise in LC-HRMS, LC-MS/MS, and method development for contaminants of emerging concern, including PFAS, flame retardants, and personal care products. She has extensive experience analysing PFAS at industrial and AFFF impacted sites using targeted and nontargeted analysis. Dr Choyke has nine peer-reviewed research articles and over a dozen conference presentations. In her role as Technical Director, she is expanding the PFAS capabilities in Denver and upgrading analytical techniques to help improve efficiency.
