2026 Volume 36 Issue Special_Issue Pages s18-s26
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) comprise a diverse group of chemicals with varying structures and physicochemical properties. Targeted analysis using highly selective and sensitive liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has been the primary method for quantifying individual PFAS compounds. This approach plays a central role in regulatory monitoring and toxicological assessment. However, comprehensive evaluation remains challenging for PFAS lacking analytical standards, including unknown precursors and transformation products.
To address these limitations, complementary “PFAS Total” quantification methods have been employed. These include extractable organic fluorine (EOF), adsorbable organic fluorine (AOF), and total oxidizable precursor (TOP) assay, which collectively aim to estimate the totality of PFAS burden. While PFAS Total methods can quantify substances such as perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), but they cannot comprehensively capture all PFAS species. Each method has an inherent “analytical window” depending on the detectable PFAS structures and properties.
Accordingly, a comprehensive PFAS assessment requires the appropriate selection and combination of analytical methods based on the purpose of monitoring, the target compounds, and the characteristics of the sample matrix. While targeted analysis remains indispensable, the practical implementation and standardization of PFAS Total screening techniques are essential for advancing environmental monitoring and achieving sustainable PFAS management. Future efforts should aim to integrate these approaches through both methodological development and regulatory frameworks.
