A brief insight into PFAS challenges

PFAS compounds are per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, an extended family of thousands of synthetic chemicals, present in many industrial and household products, produced by humans, and permanently maintained in our environment and in the human body. They are used to waterproof and package many products – from raincoats, to mascara, sofas and pans. These substances are also called "eternal substances" because they can persist for many years in the environment.
They pose potential risks to human health and the environment.

The best known compounds are perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). Their volatility allows for wide dispersion in the environment, especially in leachate from landfills and sewage treatment plants. The compounds are also present in firefighting foams.

Health and environmental risks
PFAS degrade into persistent and bioaccumulative perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs), contributing to pollution. Human exposure occurs primarily through ingestion of contaminated water and food, with analyzes frequently showing PFAS contamination of groundwater, surface water, and soil. Even in the process of food preparation and packaging, food can be subject to contamination, with the presence of PFAS being reported in non-stick cookware coatings (Teflon) and fast food packaging.
Therefore, reliable detection of PFAS is essential to mitigate these risks.

Our analytical methods
At WESSLING, a member of ALS Limited, we use gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) for the ultra-sensitive and selective detection of PFAS, making it possible to detect PFAS at concentrations down to 5 ng/L.

For more information about our PFAS detection services and to discuss your specific needs, please contact us.

About us

WESSLING Romania, part of ALS Limited since 2024, is an international and independent laboratory, testing and consulting company, represented in 22 locations in Europe and China. With over 20 years of presence on the Romanian market, WESSLING Romania has earned a reputation for excellence among national and international customers. A team of 1,200 highly qualified employees is dedicated to continuous improvement in quality, safety and environmental health protection. We review, analyze, evaluate, plan and implement projects for the sustainable improvement of the quality of life.