Marchwood adds 52 PFAS analytes to help companies meet regulations

Originally launched with 47 analytes, Marchwood has since expanded its service to 52 PFAS analytes to help companies comply with upcoming legislation, safeguard public health, and protect the environment.

‘Marchwood is now operating a targeted PFAS screen with 52 PFAS analytes, including PFOS and PFOA in clean waters, dirty waters, and solids,’ said David Elo, Senior Business Development Manager at Marchwood. ‘The methodology is based on the most recent version of the US EPA method for full compliance and incorporates the PFAS listed on the new Drinking Water Inspectorate guidance. As the UK’s leading dioxins and furans analysis laboratory, we are always looking for ways to innovate and satisfy customer requests. So, we have recently extended this list to 52 PFAS analytes, further allowing us to meet all customer requirements effectively.’

The limits of detection for PFAS are between 1 and 5mg/l for clean water samples. To meet such a low detection limit, and to eliminate background noise and cross-contamination, Marchwood has dedicated its LC/MS QQQ instrumentation to solely carrying out PFAS analysis. The team has modified the LC to meet this method detection limit and equipped it with PFC-free parts to eliminate any environmental contamination.

‘Regional environment protection agencies will soon be bringing out legislation around PFAS for utilities. So, we made sure to implement these new tests with plenty of time,’ continued David. ‘We have also applied for UKAS accreditation for some of the matrices to give our customers further confidence in the accuracy and reliability of our results. By analysing effluents, sewage, soils, fertiliser, and waste, we are not only using our extensive expertise in this area to limit exposure to PFAS, safeguarding public health and protecting the environment, but we are also ensuring our customers remain fully compliant.’

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a group of synthetic chemicals used to make fluoropolymer coatings that help to resist heat and repel oil, stains, grease, and water. More commonly known as “forever chemicals”, they can persist in the environment for a very long time, moving through soils and bypassing wastewater filtration systems without breaking down. PFAS are hazardous to public health, leading to adverse effects including altered immune and thyroid function, liver and kidney disease, reproductive and developmental issues, and cancer.

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This news article has been updated to reflect changes made in 2026.