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Standards Development
This document is based on DIN EN 17681-1 and specifies a test method, including the degradation of certain side-chain fluorinated polymers during the extraction with simultaneous alkaline hydrolysis, and using liquid chromatography (LC) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) for identification and quantification of certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Since the group of PFAS consists of several thousand substances it is not possible to test for all of them in targeted testing, e.g. for many PFAS reference standards are not available. Therefore, CEN/TC 172/WG 3 discussed which PFAS are likely to be found in pulp, paper and paperboard. Based on test results and experiences provided by experts of the joined working group, the group agreed on the PFAS listed in Annex A as lead substances which are recommended to be tested. Furthermore, it was considered to only include PFAS for which analytical reference standards are available.
Annex A indicates a list of target PFAS which can be analysed with this document. Certain precursor compounds (e.g. acrylates, methacrylates and diphosphate esters) undergo alkaline hydrolysis and only their per- or polyfluorinated degradation products such as PFOA or n:2 fluorotelomer alcohols (n:2 FTOHs, n =6 ,8 10) can be determined.
Through the method outlined in Annex B, residual target PFAS and other non-polymeric PFAS precursors which are not stable to alkaline hydrolysis can be identified.
This document is also applicable to the determination of further PFAS, provided that the method is validated with the additional substances and that these PFAS are stable to alkaline hydroloysis and dehydrofluorination and can be determined by LC-MS/MS.
The New Work Item shall establish a standardized method for identification and quantification of Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in pulp, paper and paperboard via liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry, including an optional degradation of certain side-chain fluorinated polymers. Standardization is necessary due to the upcoming legal demands of Regulation (EU) 2025/40 (PPWR), Art. 5, No. 5 (a) and (b); which shall apply from 12 August 2026. A standardized testing approach is necessary to ensure harmonised testing by testing laboratories and regulatory authorities and therefore equal treatment of manufacturers and/or importers in the European common market.
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