Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Wastewater Using EPA Method 1633 with 
Semi-automated Solid Phase Extraction – EzPFC

Semiautomated EPA Method 1633 for PFAS Extraction

Semiautomated EPA Method 1633 for PFAS Extraction offers a reliable and efficient approach for detecting per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in environmental samples. PFAS are synthetic compounds that feature a perfluorinated or polyfluorinated carbon chain, such as F(CF₂)n– or F(CF₂)n–(C₂H₄)n. These compounds are persistent, bioaccumulative, and widely used across various industries.

Common Uses of PFAS

PFAS have been extensively used in:

• Stain-resistant coatings for textiles, leather, and carpets

• Grease-proof materials in food packaging

• Firefighting foams

• Surfactants in mining and oil-well drilling

• Floor polishes and insecticide formulations

Rising Concerns and the Need for Standardized Testing

Growing awareness of the health and environmental risks associated with PFAS—especially PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate) and PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid)—has led to the development of standardized analytical methods. In response, the U.S. EPA introduced Method 1633, a comprehensive protocol for PFAS testing in multiple environmental matrices.

What EPA Method 1633 Covers

EPA Method 1633 enables the analysis of PFAS in:
✔ Wastewater
✔ Surface water and groundwater
✔ Soil, biosolids, and sediments
✔ Landfill leachate
✔ Fish tissue

The semiautomated extraction and cleanup workflow improves lab productivity, ensures accuracy, and reduces solvent usage. It is ideal for high-throughput laboratories focused on PFAS monitoring and regulatory compliance.

👉 Access the official EPA Method 1633 (PDF)

Key Benefits:

Reduced Costs: Less financial investment compared to fully automated systems
✔ Efficient Processing: High-throughput extraction with minimal manual handling

• Semi-Automated Workflow: Reduces manual labor while maintaining control over critical steps.
• Reduced Costs: Less financial investment compared to fully automated systems
• Versatile Sample Handling: Compatible with a wide range of water and environmental samples.
• Efficient Processing: High-throughput extraction with minimal manual handling
• Minimized Contamination Risk: Uses high-purity materials to prevent background interference.

Extraction Process:

1. Cartridge Conditioning – Prepares the SPE sorbent for optimal PFAS retention.
2. Sample Loading – Ensures uniform sample application onto the cartridge.
3. Cartridge Wash – Removes interferences while preserving target analytes.
4. Cartridge Drying – Eliminates residual moisture for efficient elution.
5. Elution – Recovers PFAS using precise solvent delivery for accurate analysis.

For detailed system specifications, visit Semiautomated PFAS  Extraction.

Instrumentation:

• FMS  Ez PFC™ System
• Vacuum pump
• Agilent 6475 TripleQuad LC/MS Consumables

Consumables:

• Agilent Bond Elut PFAS WAX 150mg cartridges (# 5610-2150)
• Ultrapure DI water
• Methanol pesticide grade, Formic acid, Ammonium Hydroxide
• Relevant PFAS spiking standards