Fast and direct detection of perfluorocarboxlyic acids (PFCA) with SICRIT-MS

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS), especially their carboxylic acids (PFCA), are ubiquitously used chemicals as flame retardants, surfactants and coatings. As they are very persistent, accumulation in water and food is a result. Simultaneously, especially PFOA (perfluorooc- tanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid) are under investigation for cancerogenic and mutagenic effects. In consequence, production and use of PFOS has been prohibited in 2009 and PFOA followed in 2019. Nevertheless, these compounds and their related substitutes as well as their degradation products will be found in any environmental sample matrix far into the future.

SICRIT presents a versatile approach for direct and non-target screening of solid bulk samples, coatings and textiles for perfluoroalkyl compounds. In negative mode, relevant PFCAs can be efficiently and softly ionized. The SICRIT ion source can be adapted to every LC-MS instrument, transforming it to an online-sensor, where samples can be analyzed by simply holding the sample of interest in front of the MS inlet.

Benefits:

• SICRIT-MS allows for direct PFCA screening of any solid sample (formulation powders, textile samples) or coating solutions
• No sample pre-treatment necessary
• Soft ionization in negative mode
• High resolution MS data for non-target analytics