PFAS in building materials and waste
The presence of PFAS in waste, including that from the construction sector, is an issue that is receiving more and more attention. This is not least through extended legislation in the area e.g. through inclusion of PFOA and PFHxS in the POP regulation ((EU) 2019/1021). In addition to the question of waste classification, PFAS content can also be of interest for the selection of treatment. For example, in the case of landfilling, leaching can affect outgoing water and thus the need for cleaning, which in the light of more extensive permits can be an important aspect.
Building materials and waste can be a source of PFAS and although various materials have been mentioned, overall knowledge has been limited. Recently, a Danish report on the subject was published by the Danish Environmental Protection Agency (see link). Four different building types were investigated, residential, public buildings, industrial activities and other (offices, warehouses etc) and the samples were divided into three time periods, before 1950, 1950-1977 and 1977-2000. The materials included paint on various surfaces, floor and wall coverings/tiles, joints, concrete and bricks. In the study a total of 350 samples were analyzed for 32 PFAS, of which 22 referred to the Danish scope for soil, groundwater and drinking water, and 10 were based on investigations and information available, archival samples and analytical possibilities.
PFAS were frequently found over the different time periods, materials and activities. For comparison, the Danish guideline values for soil regarding PFAS4 (10 µg/kg) and PFAS22 (400 µg/kg) were used. PFAS could be detected in 217 out of 350 samples and a total of 68 samples exceeded the lower PFAS4 limit. Paint generally contained the highest concentrations, but significant levels were also found in linoleum and vinyl flooring, carpets and parquet. Regarding the composition of PFAS, it varied, but commonly PFOS plus C5-C9 PFCA (PFPeA to PFNA) could be detected. However, the highest individual concentrations, up to 16 000 µg/kg, were obtained for 6:2 diPAP in some paint samples where the contribution from 8:2 diPAP was often large as well.
Eurofins offers analysis of PFAS in building materials and waste. One package consists of the Danish PFAS22, while our 33-pack is based on regulation (eg POP, SVHC) and our own investigations of building materials. In addition to these two, we also have a larger screening pack with 50 PFAS. In addition, we can offer TOP (total oxidizable precursors) for this matrix group. TOP can e.g. be of interest when assessing so-called "related substances" according to the POP regulation (link below). Please note that a sample preparation (crushing/grinding) usually needs to be added (SL004).
PFAS packs for building materials and waste:
PLW8E: DK PFAS22
PLWB0: PFAS33 experience-based and regulation
PLWD5: PFAS50 Screening pack
Contact Eurofins experts!
Questions about PFAS can be answered by our analytical advisory service, which can be reached via customer support, 010-490 8110 or e-mail: sh-analys.miljo.se@etn.eurofins.com