Overall Fluorine Analysis: A Conscious First Step in PPWR PFAS Screening
The European Union's Packaging Regulation (PPWR) has raised a fundamental question for manufacturers with the impending restrictions on the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) in packaging: “How can I most accurately, fastest and resource-savingly prove that my product contains no PASs?” The scope of LC-MS/MS methods, which usually focus on a few dozen target connections, may be limited given the PFAS spectrum consisting of thousands of connections. Exactly at this point, the Total Fluorine Analysis (Total Fluorine) with its goal-independent (non-target) approach is the cornerstone of its legal compliance strategy, since it is the sum of all provides organofluorocompounds as a single numerical value.
Nano-Test offers this analysis not only as a pure measurement, but as a strategic decision support tool that helps shape our customers' PPWR timetable.
The science behind the methodology: why CIC?
The Combustion Ion Chromatography - CIC) method, which is recognized as a gold standard in the overall fluorine analysis, is based on the principle of using the sample at high temperatures (1000-1100 °C) to undergo oxidative combustion and thus convert all fluorine-containing compounds into fluoride ions (F⁻). The biggest advantage of this method in relation to PFAS screening over other techniques (e.g., extractable organic fluorine - EOF) is that the entire sample can be analyzed independently of the die. It captures all fluorine sources in the sample, including volatile, semi-volatile or polymeric PFAS compounds. This is a decisive advantage, especially for packaging materials with heterogeneous and complex matrices such as coatings, adhesives or recycled ingredients. The CIC system used in the nano test laboratory has a sensitivity that reaches quantification limits in the PPB range and offers a fully automatic and traceable analysis process for each sample.
Interpretation of Results: Thresholds and Decision Tree
The numerical value provided by the overall fluorine analysis is less of a standalone “passed/fail” criterion, but rather the first and most important node of a well-founded decision tree. The interpretation strategy that we recommend to our customers at Nano-Test and which is consistent with the PPWR guidelines drafts is as follows:
Result < Determining Limit (LOQ): This scenario is the strongest proof that the sample does not contain organic fluorine compounds in analytical relevant concentrations. This result can be considered sufficient for PFAS compliance under the PPWR and no additional targeted PFAS analysis is required.
Result between LOQ and regulatory threshold: A result in this range indicates low contamination with organofluorocompounds. To determine the source and confirm whether it is PFAS, a detailed examination using specific LC-MS/MS analyzes is recommended.
Results>Regulatory Threshold: A high total fluorine content indicates that the specimen will most likely contain PFAS intentionally. In this case, a targeted analysis process should be initiated immediately to determine which specific PFAS compounds are present, identify the source and make a change in the recipe.
The integrated approach of Nano-Test: Analysis and Consulting
Nano-Test Labor Services does not regard the overall fluorine analysis as an isolated test, but as an integral part of the PPWR conformity process. The added value we offer our customers is not limited to a reliable numerical result from an accredited and GLP-compliant laboratory. Our decisive difference lies in the technical advice that we provide after the analysis. We interpret the overall fluorine result determined together with you in the context of the specific composition of your product, the raw materials used and the regulatory requirements of your target market; Depending on the risk level indicated by the result, we plan the next steps together (such as selecting a targeted PFAS panel, NIAS screening or a change of supplier). Our goal is to offer you not only data, but also implementable insights and strategic orientation in the complex regulatory environment of the PPWR.
Contact NANO-TEST experts to discuss the overall fluorine analysis on PPWR compliance of your packaging and your comprehensive PFAS strategy.