Analysis of water, slurry, and soil for PFAS

23 Feb 2023

On 21 February 2022 the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection of Germany (BMUV) published a guideline for the assessment of PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances). These are also known to many as PFC (perfluorinated chemicals) and PFT (perfluorinated surfactants). The guideline contains recommendations for the nationwide assessment of soil and water contamination and the proper disposal of soil material containing PFAS. Under REACH, testing is also required by law for some PFAS classified as “very high concern”. Our experts examine groundwater, surface water, slurry, or soil material for you for maximum safety at this point. The topic is also currently being discussed for the next amendment to the Drinking Water Ordinance (TrinkwasserV), which is expected to come into force in the second quarter of 2023.

Our experts examine groundwater, surface water, sewage sludge or soil material for you so that you have maximum security at this point.

PFAS are not naturally occurring substances but are industrially produced and used for their water-, grease- and dirt-repellent properties, for example, in the production of textiles, as a component of papers, in aviation or the electroplating industry. In total, the substance group comprises about 4700 compounds. It can also be found in fire extinguishing agents, or lubricants and impregnating agents. PFAS can now be detected almost everywhere in our environment, from water to soil to the livers of polar bears. One of the reasons for entry is industrial or domestic wastewater or textile abrasion. PFAS do not degrade completely in the environment and are therefore classified as “persistent organic substances” by the Federal Environment Agency of Germany. Above a certain level, the substance groups also have a toxic effect on humans and animals and are suspected of causing cancer.

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We analyse your samples for all PFAS (according to the guidelines; see page 12) and others, new Capstone A and B. If you have any questions about other substances, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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WESSLING provides analysis for all types of soil samples

WESSLING Soil analysis: planning security for your construction projects

We analyse and declare soils as well as mineral waste and soil/building rubble mixtures - even under time constraints to ensure the smooth, continuous progress of your projects.