English 
Dutch 
French 
PFAS extraction systems
PFAS extraction systems isolate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances from solid and semi-solid samples before instrumental analysis. Careful sample preparation is essential because PFAS analysis often involves low concentrations and a significant risk of background contamination.
What is PFAS extraction?
PFAS extraction is a sample-preparation process used to transfer PFAS compounds from a sample matrix into a liquid extract. This extract can subsequently be cleaned, concentrated and analyzed using a suitable analytical technique.
The extraction process must release the target compounds from the sample while minimizing losses, interferences and external contamination. This is particularly important because PFAS may be present at very low concentrations.
Samples requiring extraction can include:
- Soil and sediment
- Sludge and biosolids
- Animal tissue
- Food products
- Agricultural products
- Consumer products
- Cosmetics and personal-care products
- Other solid and semi-solid materials
The required extraction and cleanup procedure depends on the sample matrix, target PFAS compounds and applicable analytical method.
Preventing PFAS background contamination
Contamination control is a critical part of PFAS sample preparation. PFAS-containing materials may be present in laboratory equipment, tubing, seals, containers and other consumables.
Materials that come into contact with the sample or extract should therefore be evaluated for their suitability in PFAS analysis. Laboratory blanks and quality-control samples are used to monitor possible contamination introduced during preparation.
Both EDGE PFAS and MARS 6 PFAS are designed around a PFAS-free extraction environment. CEM states that the components in contact with the samples are tested to be PFAS-free.
Suitable laboratory procedures remain essential. Analysts should follow the requirements of the selected method for sample containers, solvents, consumables, blanks, cleaning and quality control.
How does PFAS extraction work?
A prepared sample is combined with a suitable extraction solvent and heated under controlled conditions. The solvent penetrates the sample matrix and transfers the PFAS compounds into the liquid phase.
After extraction, the liquid is separated from the solid sample. Depending on the system and method, filtration, cooling, washing or cleanup may be incorporated into the workflow.
The resulting extract is then prepared for subsequent analysis. Additional cleanup or concentration steps may be required depending on the sample matrix and analytical method.
Automated sequential extraction
In automated sequential extraction, samples are processed individually. The system adds solvent, heats the sample and automatically filters and collects the extract.
This approach reduces manual handling and allows each finished extract to be collected in a separate tube for further preparation or analysis.
Microwave batch extraction
Microwave extraction processes multiple closed sample vessels in one batch. Microwave energy heats the sample and solvent under controlled conditions, accelerating the transfer of PFAS compounds into the extract.
Batch extraction is particularly useful for laboratories that need to process many samples using the same method.
Applications of PFAS extraction
PFAS extraction supports environmental, food, regulatory and research laboratories preparing samples for PFAS determination.
Common sample types and application areas include:
- Soil and sediment
- Sludge and biosolids
- Animal and fish tissue
- Meat and other food products
- Fruit and vegetables
- Consumer products
- Cosmetics
- Environmental monitoring
- Regulatory testing
- PFAS research
The extraction method must be suitable for the sample matrix, target compounds and subsequent analytical procedure.
Choosing a PFAS extraction system
The most suitable system depends mainly on sample volume, required throughput and the preferred laboratory workflow.
Sequential or batch extraction
A sequential system processes samples individually and can automate several preparation steps. This can be beneficial when reducing operator handling and producing a filtered extract are important.
A batch system processes multiple samples simultaneously. This approach is suitable for laboratories running larger groups of samples using the same extraction method.
Sample throughput
Laboratories processing smaller numbers of varied samples may prefer an automated sequential workflow. High-volume laboratories may benefit from processing up to 40 samples in a single microwave batch.
Sample matrix
Both systems can accommodate a variety of matrices, but the selected method must be validated for the sample type. Matrix composition can influence solvent selection, extraction conditions and cleanup requirements.
Filtration and cleanup
The EDGE PFAS automatically filters the extract during processing. Optional Q-Inserts can combine extraction and cleanup in one workflow.
MARS 6 PFAS performs the extraction in sealed centrifuge tubes. Further filtration, solid-phase extraction or cleanup may be required after extraction, depending on the analytical method.
Contamination control
All materials that contact the sample must be suitable for PFAS analysis. The extraction vessels, tubing, filters, collection tubes and cleanup materials should be considered when evaluating the complete workflow.
Applicable analytical method
The selected equipment and extraction procedure must meet the requirements of the laboratory’s analytical method. Method conditions, quality controls and validation requirements should always be confirmed for the relevant sample matrix.
Frequently asked questions
What does PFAS stand for?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. It describes a large group of synthetic fluorinated compounds used in numerous industrial and consumer applications.
Why is extraction required before PFAS analysis?
PFAS compounds must first be transferred from the sample matrix into a liquid extract. This allows the target compounds to be cleaned, concentrated and measured using an appropriate analytical technique.
Which samples can be prepared using PFAS extraction?
PFAS extraction can be applied to solid and semi-solid samples such as soil, sediment, sludge, tissue, food, agricultural products, consumer products and cosmetics. The selected procedure must be suitable for the specific matrix.
Why is PFAS contamination control important?
PFAS may be present at very low concentrations, while certain laboratory materials can introduce background contamination. Appropriate equipment, consumables, blanks and cleaning procedures are therefore essential for reliable results.
What is the difference between sequential and batch PFAS extraction?
Sequential extraction processes samples individually and can automate several handling steps. Batch extraction processes multiple samples simultaneously, making it suitable for higher-throughput workflows.
Does PFAS extraction provide the final analytical result?
No. Extraction is a sample-preparation step. The resulting extract must subsequently be analyzed using a suitable analytical method.
What is microwave-assisted PFAS extraction?
Microwave-assisted extraction uses controlled microwave heating to accelerate the interaction between the sample and extraction solvent. Multiple sealed sample vessels can be processed during the same batch.
How do I choose between EDGE PFAS and MARS 6 PFAS?
EDGE PFAS is suited to automated sequential extraction with integrated filtration and collection. MARS 6 PFAS is suited to laboratories that want to process up to 40 samples simultaneously in a batch.
Our PFAS extraction systems
SciSPX supplies PFAS extraction systems to laboratories in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. The available systems include automated sequential extraction and high-throughput microwave batch extraction.
Use the comparison below to identify which PFAS extraction system best matches your laboratory workflow.
Analyzer | Extraction workflow | Sample processing | Extract handling | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
EDGE PFAS | Automated heated solvent extraction | Sequential processing | Automated solvent addition, filtration, cooling and collection | Automated extraction with reduced manual handling |
MARS 6 PFAS | Microwave-assisted extraction | Up to 40 samples in one batch | Extraction in sealed 15 or 50 mL centrifuge tubes | High-throughput batch extraction |
Find the right PFAS extraction system
Selecting a PFAS extraction system starts with the sample matrices, number of samples, extraction method and required level of automation.
EDGE PFAS is intended for laboratories that want an automated sequential workflow with integrated filtration and extract collection. MARS 6 PFAS is intended for laboratories requiring high-throughput extraction of up to 40 samples in one batch.
We can help you compare both systems and select a PFAS sample-preparation workflow suited to your laboratory requirements.
Sequential extraction
EDGE PFAS
Automates solvent addition, extraction, filtration, cooling and extract collection. It is designed for sequential PFAS extraction from solid and semi-solid samples.
Batch extraction
MARS 6 PFAS
Provides microwave-assisted extraction for up to 40 samples in one batch. Samples are processed in sealed 15 or 50 mL centrifuge tubes.
Not sure which system fits your application?
Our Xperts are happy to discuss your application and help you find the right solution.
