Enhanced PFAS Screening in Wastewater: Implementing U.S. EPA Method 1621

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are among the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. With more than 14,000 synthetic fluorinated compounds in use across consumer products, industrial processes, and firefighting foams, PFAS contamination has become widespread and persistent. Monitoring these “forever chemicals” requires advanced analytical tools that deliver reliable results at trace levels.

This application note demonstrates how U.S. EPA Method 1621 can be implemented using an enhanced combustion-ion chromatography (C-IC) workflow to screen PFAS in wastewater. This approach combines reduced contamination risk, improved detection limits, and streamlined operation—all in a smaller laboratory footprint.

What you’ll learn inside

• EPA Method 1621 explained: How adsorbable organic fluorine (AOF) screening is applied to PFAS detection
• Enhanced workflows: Leveraging the Thermo Scientific™ Cindion™ C-IC system with Dionex™ Inuvion™ IC for greater efficiency
• Technical improvements: Achieving lower method detection limits and better reproducibility compared to earlier implementations
• Real-world results: Data from municipal drinking water, blended wastewater, and percolation pond samples showing accurate PFAS recovery rates
• Practical guidance: Tips to minimize contamination sources and ensure robust, compliant workflows

Who should download

• Environmental laboratories and wastewater treatment facilities
• Regulatory compliance teams
• Analytical chemists focused on trace-level detection
• Researchers and consultants working on PFAS monitoring

Download the Application Note to learn more