PFAS Analysis by ASTM D7979-20 for Water, Sludge, Influent, Effluent, and Wastewater

• Sample Matrix: water, sludge, influent, effluent, and wastewater samples
• Sample Preparation: filtration
• Detection Technique: LC-MS/MS

Standard Test Method for Determination of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Water, Sludge, Influent, Effluent, and Wastewater by Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)

ASTM D7979-20 is used for the analysis of 21 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water, sludge, influent, effluent, and wastewater samples, and the procedure covers filtration followed by LC-MS/MS analysis.

D7979-20 is not available from Restek, but it may be purchased from ASTM. The full list of target analytes and products recommended by Restek is provided below. In addition, you can register and directly compare analyte lists and matrices across PFAS analysis methods here or visit www.restek.com/PFAS to explore our technical resources for PFAS analysis.

Analyte List for ASTM D7979-20 for PFAS Analysis

PFAS acronyms, compound names, and CAS numbers for these perfluorinated compounds vary across methods and guidelines, and they also depend on compound form (e.g., neutral vs. salt).

The following list uses standardized terminology to allow easy comparison across the methods and guidelines in our comprehensive guide. Please refer to ASTM D7979-20 for method-specific nomenclature and to confirm how the test method adheres to its published terminology.

Recommended Products for ASTM D7979-20 for PFAS Analysis

A PFAS delay column helps reduce system-related background contributions that can interfere with measurements at lower concentrations. Reducing instrument background may be especially important for avoiding a higher reporting limit in challenging analyses.

PFAS delay column: 5 µm, 50 x 3.0 mm (cat.# 580959 [custom product])

Guard columns help improve performance by protecting the analytical column from particulates and retained matrix components.

Appropriate filtration materials are important for PFAS workflows because sample prep consumables can affect background levels. Careful PFAS sample preparation, including thoughtful consumable selection, is one of the most practical steps a laboratory can take to achieve a lower method detection limit.

Polypropylene lab supplies are commonly used in PFAS workflows to address contamination concerns and sample integrity issues in routine handling. Careful material selection is also important practice in trace-level PFAS analysis.

* Note that ASTM methods refer to the use of a glass syringe. Norm-Ject plastic syringes are made from polypropylene/polyethylene and can be used as an alternative.

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