New Guide for PFAS Source Differentiation Approaches Using Forensic Applications
1. Scope
This guide will present specialty analytical methods for PFAS source differentiation and identification that can be used for most environmental matrices with the exclusion of air. Methods for the analysis of PFAS in consumer products will also not be discussed. Reporting of the results and methods for the analysis of complex data sets will also be included in this guide, although detailed evaluation and validation will be the subject of a future ASTM guide.
Keywords
Background; conceptual site model; fingerprinting; anthropogenic
Rationale
There is a need in the environmental profession for guidance on how to use new analytical approaches for PFAS identification. Several advanced methods have been developed to identify PFAS that are not well understood and not detected by existing USEPA and ASTM methods. These methods can help with differentiation between point and ambient sources of PFAS. They can also help with identification of PFAS source materials. Use of these advanced analytical methods can also benefit in the development of a conceptual side model due to the different characteristics of these nontarget analytes. While there are no regulatory requirements to identify these compounds at present, their identification can be useful in allocation of responsibility and evaluation of current and future risk. This guidance can also aid the environmental professional in the selection of the appropriate analytical method and interpretation of the results, depending on their needs.
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Work Item Status
Date Initiated: 10-25-2025
Technical Contact: Stephanie Fiorenza