

United Chemical Technologies (UCT) provides a comprehensive PFAS Solution designed to support the extraction and analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from environmental and food matrices. This guide features an array of sample preparation tools, detailed product information, and application notes to help laboratories achieve reliable, accurate results.

ENVIRO TESTING
UCT’s Enviro-Clean® ECWAX, ECHLD and Dual Phase cartridges feature enhanced cleanliness for minimal background in addition to highly retentive sorbent and unrivaled exchange capacities. These cartridges form the foundation of a robust SPE solution for the extraction of PFAS compounds from a variety of water and soil samples.

Food Safety
UCT’s QuEChERS method is an effective, quick, and cost-efficient way to extract and prepare samples for PFAS analysis, making it a valuable tool in food safety. Its simplicity and scalability allow laboratories to test multiple samples in a short period, while still maintaining high recovery rates and consistent results.

PFAS VACUUM MANIFOLD SYSTEM
UCT’s PFAS Glass Block Vacuum Manifold System is specifically engineered to support high-performance PFAS testing with minimal background contamination. Featuring carefully selected low-background components, the system offers a cost-effective, efficient and flexible solution for high-throughput PFAS workflows.
PFAS Workshop
Join Arielle Cocozza as she explores PFAS sample preparation workflows, including SPE and QuEChERS methodologies. Learn about the five-step SPE process, tips for efficient extraction, and methods used by the EPA and FDA. This workshop covers everything from sorbent selection to optimizing recovery rates and tackling common laboratory challenges in PFAS analysis.
Extraction Tips
- Cartridges can be conditioned ahead of time if kept wet
- Keeping some water visible in cartridge helpful for processing
- Keep sorbent wet during loading for consistent flow
- Shake solvent in bottle during wash/elution steps
- ‘Spin’ reservoirs when loading wash/elution solvents
- Ensure all water is removed from bottle prior to elution
- Allow elution solvent to soak cartridge in each elution step
- Use high vacuum after last elution step for 1 – 2 minutes
Extraction Tips
- Prerinse all manifold parts and consumables with 1% NH₄OH in MEOH
- Prepare extra cartridges in case of dirty samples (Aqueous)
- Pre-wet glass wool with water after conditioning for improved flow
- Use dual-phase cartridges to eliminate additional carbon step
- Slower loading speed will help short-chain recoveries
- Bring final volume to 5mL for consistent IS recoveries
Extraction Tips
- Hydrate samples to ~ 80% or higher prior to extraction
- Add solvent prior to adding salts during extraction
- Use matrix-matched calibration standards when necessary
- Be conscious of amount of GCB during dSPE cleanup – It can retain PFAS
- Ensure supernatant for SPE cleanup is diluted to <20% organic prior to loading
PFAS Solutions Guide Products
Combat PFAS contamination with our advanced filtration systems, ensuring clean, safe water. Invest in reliable, long-term solutions for a healthier future.
SPE Cartridges
QuEChERS
PFAS Glass Block Manifold System
ENVIRO TESTING

UCT’s Enviro-Clean® ECWAX, ECHLD and Free-Flowing Dual Phase Cartridges feature enhanced cleanliness for minimal background in addition to highly retentive sorbent and unrivaled exchange capacities. UCT offers a Robust SPE solution set for the extraction of PFAS substances from a variety of water and soil samples.
SAMPLE PROCESSING

UCT’s PFAS Glass Block Vacuum Manifold System is designed to deliver superior performance in PFAS testing. With carefully selected components, the system is tailored to provide minimal background, making it an ideal solution for laboratories focused on clean and reliable extractions. Cost-effective, Efficient, and flexible approach to PFAS extractions.

EPA Method 1633
Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Aqueous Samples via SPE and LC-MS/MS

EPA Method 533
Determination of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Drinking Water via SPE and LC-MS/MS

EPA Method 537
Determination of Selected Perfluorinated Alkyl Acids in Drinking Water via SPE and LC-MS/MS

FDA Method C-010.01
Determination of 16 Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Food using LC-MS/MS
> Cartridges can be conditioned ahead of time if kept wet <
> Keeping some water visible in cartridge helpful for processing <
> Keep sorbent wet during loading for consistent flow <
> Shake solvent in bottle during wash/elution steps <
> ‘Spin’ reservoirs when loading wash/elution solvents <
> Ensure all water is removed from bottle prior to elution <
> Allow elution solvent to soak cartridge in each elution step <
> Use high vacuum after last elution step for 1 – 2 minutes <
> Use premixed phosphate buffer pouches to save time <
> Test all consumables and solvents before use – PFBA & 6:2 FTS are common contaminants <
> Slower loading speed will help short-chain recoveries <
> Lower initial volumes can use smaller sorbent capacities <
> Loading speed 10/15 mL/min suggested, faster speeds possible <
> An extra 0.5-1mL of methanol added after second elution may improve recovery of long-chain compounds <
> A highly cross-linked DVB polymer can provide more retention <
> Prerinse all manifold parts and consumables with 1% NH₄OH in MEOH <
> Prepare extra cartridges in case of dirty samples (Aqueous) <
> Pre-wet glass wool with water after conditioning for improved flow <
> Use dual-phase cartridges to eliminate additional carbon step <
> Slower loading speed will help short-chain recoveries <
> Bring final volume to 5mL for consistent IS recoveries <
PFAS Solutions Guide Products