Identifying and Avoid False Positives During Routine PFAS Analysis

Overview:

• The reporting limit of a method is also dependent upon the consistency of clean blanks and elimination of sporadic contamination.
• Vendors of PFAS consumables need to provide certified, trace level PFAS free products.
• PFAS are everywhere! They are widely used, vendors/suppliers when contacted don't know their processes are using them.
• Since PFAS contamination has become an issue with PFAS analysis all field samples are taken in duplicate, not just field blanks.
• The complete data package and replicates need to be evaluated by the user in order to make sound conclusions and identify false positives.
• Every step there is a chance to incorporate “free-range” PFAS in your sample, minimize the preparation steps
• How PFAS is analyzed at EPA Region 5 Laboratory

Who Should Attend:

• Anyone lab scientists, or managers involved in PFAS Analysis

Key Learning Points:

• Learn how to approach analyzing for PFAS, it is not rocket science like they made it out to be
• Become aware of Sporadic PFAS Contamination
• Understand how to identify false positives
• Require all analysis quality control and samples to be analyzed in replicates to identify false positives.

Presenter: Larry Zintek (Organic Methods Group Leader, UA EPA)

Presenter: Maryam Sayeed (Product Management Specialist, Phenomenex)