Beyond the Target: Analytical Strategies for the Non-Targeted Screening of Per- and Poly-Fluorinated Substances by GC-TOFMS

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) remain one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. Their structural diversity, persistence, and presence across complex environmental matrices make them particularly difficult to monitor. Despite their relatively high molecular masses, many PFAS possess sufficient volatility to be analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), opening new possibilities for both targeted and non-targeted screening.

In this webinar, Prof. Flavio Franchinaand Marco De Poli (University of Ferrara) will present a dual analytical strategy combining one-dimensional GC and comprehensive two-dimensional GC (GC×GC) coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOFMS). By applying multiple ionisation modes—including EI, PCI, and NCI—the workflow enables improved sensitivity and selectivity across different PFAS families.

 A novel dynamic headspace (DHS)–thermal desorption (TD) approach for water samples will also be introduced, providing a robust platform for the detection, characterisation, and quantification of semi-volatile PFAS. Beyond the targeted analysis of known PFAS subclasses, the power of GC×GC-TOFMS allows the identification of other relevant contaminants, making it an indispensable tool for advancing environmental monitoring.

 Join us to discover how these advanced analytical strategies can help you go beyond the target in addressing PFAS contamination and safeguarding our essential resources of air, water, and soil.