ASTM D7968-23 PDF

Overview

ASTM D7968-23 is the internationally recognized standard test method for the determination of polyfluorinated compounds, also known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), in soil. Developed by ASTM International under the jurisdiction of Committee D34 on Waste Management, this standard outlines procedures for qualitative and quantitative analysis of selected PFAS using solvent extraction and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS), with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM).

PFAS are synthetic chemicals commonly used in industrial and commercial products due to their resistance to heat, water, and oil. However, their persistence, bioaccumulation, and mobility in the environment have raised significant health and environmental concerns. Detecting and quantifying PFAS at trace levels in soil is necessary for risk assessment, remediation, and regulatory compliance.

Key Topics

• Purpose and Scope

  • Provides a quick, robust, and sensitive method to detect trace-level PFAS in various soil matrices.
  • Utilizes solvent extraction, filtration, and LC/MS/MS for comprehensive PFAS analysis.

• Analyte Coverage

  • Focuses on a targeted suite of perfluorinated carboxylic acids, sulfonates, and fluorotelomer acids (see Table 1 of the standard for details).
  • Method detection limits and reporting ranges are specified for each compound.

• Performance-Based Methodology

  • Allows use of alternative instrumentation or procedures if data quality objectives are achieved.
  • Adheres to stringent quality assurance and calibration requirements to ensure data reliability.

• Sampling and Quality Control

  • Emphasizes contamination avoidance by using PFAS-free sample containers and equipment.
  • Involves routine use of field blanks, surrogates, and matrix spike samples.

• Trace Analysis

  • Specifically suitable for low-level detection of PFAS in soil and sand, providing valuable data for environmental monitoring and pathway exposure studies.

• Health and Safety

  • Stipulates laboratory safety practices, including the use of appropriate PPE and reference to Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

Applications

• Environmental Site Assessment

  • Identifying and quantifying PFAS contamination in soils at waste management facilities, industrial sites, and brownfields.
  • Supports site characterization, human health risk assessment, and the development of appropriate remediation strategies.

• Regulatory Compliance

  • Meets data requirements for federal, regional (e.g., U.S. EPA), and international regulatory frameworks.
  • Facilitates monitoring required under environmental protection statutes for persistent organic pollutants.

• Research and Product Testing

  • Used to screen consumer products (e.g., textiles, lab coats) for PFAS leaching potential.
  • Assists in understanding the environmental fate, transport, and persistence of PFAS compounds.

• Soil Quality Monitoring

  • Enables regular environmental surveillance to track PFAS trends over time, aiding government agencies and private companies in managing long-term soil quality.

Related Standards

• ASTM D1193 - Specification for Reagent Water used in analytical testing.
• ASTM D2777 - Practice for Determination of Precision and Bias of Applicable Test Methods.
• ASTM D5847 - Practice for Writing Quality Control Specifications for Standard Test Methods for Water Analysis.
• EPA SW-846 - Test Methods for Evaluating Solid Waste, Physical/Chemical Methods.
• 40 CFR Part 136 Appendix B - Procedures for determining method detection limits.

Summary

ASTM D7968-23 is a crucial analytical standard that enables accurate, sensitive, and reproducible measurement of PFAS in soils by employing LC/MS/MS technology. Its robust procedures and quality assurance requirements make it essential for laboratories, regulators, and stakeholders engaged in environmental monitoring, contamination assessment, and remediation planning related to polyfluorinated compounds. By following this standard, organizations can ensure reliable PFAS data to inform decisions and comply with evolving environmental regulations.

Keywords: ASTM D7968-23, PFAS in soil, LC/MS/MS, environmental analysis, polyfluorinated compounds, perfluoroalkyl substances, soil testing standard, PFAS contamination, environmental compliance.