"I used Filab for a chemical analysis. Very satisfied with the service. Responsive team, deadlines met, and a clear analysis report. I recommend them."
PFAS analysis in the laboratory: identifying and quantifying per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances
More than 140 people
at your service
5200 m² laboratory
+ 99% of services are provided in-house
PFAS analysis: regulatory compliance and chemical characterization
What are PFAS?
PFAS (Per- and PolyFluoroAlkyl Substances) are a large family (several thousand) of molecules containing at least one highly fluorinated carbon motif (C–F bonds), which is very stable. This stability explains their persistence in the environment and often in the body, hence the nickname “forever chemicals”.
These are chemical compounds with anti-adhesive, waterproofing, or high-heat-resistant properties.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are now subject to major regulatory restrictions in France and Europe, affecting many industrial sectors: cosmetics, textiles, plastics processing, coatings, technical materials, industrial equipment, and more.
FILAB laboratory’s PFAS expertise
FILAB is an independent laboratory specializing in analytical chemistry and materials characterization. We deploy cutting-edge expertise dedicated to trace detection and quantification of substances subject to strict regulatory restrictions. This expertise is applied in particular to complex and heterogeneous matrices, such as polymers, chemical formulations, or industrial fluids.
Our approach goes beyond simple measurement:
To ensure the reliability of every PFAS analysis, our laboratory develops tailor-made multi-technique approaches. We combine complementary methodologies based on high-resolution chromatographic and spectrometric coupling techniques (notably LC-MS/MS). The high performance of our PFAS analysis laboratory ensures:
- Structural elucidation and compound speciation.
- Ultra-trace quantification (detection thresholds in the ppb/ppt range).
- Detailed interpretation of PFAS presence, whether short- or long-chain molecules, precursors, or their polymeric forms (fluoropolymers).
Secure your regulatory compliance efforts and gain a scientifically sound interpretation of your results.
Our PFAS analysis services
Services
Targeted PFAS Analysis: 20 Substances
Regulatory screening. Quantitative analysis of 20 representative PFAS among the substances most commonly regulated.
Techniques: LC/MS-MS
Limits of quantification (LoQ)
1 to 10 ppb depending on the matrix
What are the needs?
- Regulatory status review
- Product compliance verification
- Supplier control
- PFAS pre-audit
Services
Advanced PFAS Analysis: 36 Substances
Cosmetics & complex matrices
Extended quantitative analysis of 36 PFAS, adapted to complex matrices (cosmetics, polymers, coatings, technical materials).
Techniques: LC/MS-MS, GC/MS-MS, HC-GC/MS
Limits of quantification (LoQ)
- 1 to 20 ppb depending on the matrix
Specifics: Multi-technique methodology and the possibility of analytical optimization in the event of matrix effects
Which sectors?
- Cosmetics
- Plastics processing
- Technical textiles
- Surface treatments
- Composite materials
Services
Total Fluorine Determination
Overall indicator of fluorinated compounds
Total fluorine determination makes it possible to assess the overall presence of fluorinated compounds, including non-targeted PFAS.
Techniques:
- Combustion + ion chromatography (IC)
- Furnace fusion (bead) + IC
Regulatory relevance:
- Overall evidence in the event of an authority inspection
- A guidance tool for additional analysis
- Demonstration of compliance with “no fluorine” requirements
Critical case: polymeric PFAS
Total fluorine> 50 ppm & targeted PFAS <25 ppb?
This suggests the likely presence of polymeric PFAS that cannot be detected by standard targeted methods.
Our solution: Qualitative screening by Pyrolysis GC/MS (Py-GCMS)
This technique makes it possible to:
- identify signatures of fluorinated polymers
- differentiate polymeric PFAS / non-PFAS
- provide scientific evidence in the event of an audit or inspection
This situation is common in polymeric materials, coatings, membranes, seals, and technical textiles.
Why choose FILAB?
In the face of regulatory changes concerning forever pollutants, relying on a competent PFAS testing laboratory is essential. FILAB positions itself as a PFAS expert laboratory capable of supporting the chemical, cosmetics, and environmental sectors.
With a diverse, state-of-the-art analytical platform (GC-MS, LC-MS\/MS, CI, Py-GCMS…), the FILAB laboratory adapts its per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance analysis methods according to the matrix to be studied (liquid, solid, powders…).
Discover them all Our Accreditations – Client Qualifications
AIRBUS
Qualification
PFAS testing in finished cosmetic products (emulsions, makeup products, lotions...) and cosmetic raw materials
Total fluorine testing by combustion ion chromatography (CIC)
Quantification of fluorinated molecules by LC-MS
Search for traces of elemental impurities (contamination, pollution, residue…)
Screening by LC-MS for fluorinated molecules
Analysis of APIs, excipients, raw materials, reagents, solvents in the pharmaceutical sector
PFAS: where do we stand with the regulations?
Since French law No. 2025-188 of February 27, 2025 (Environmental Code, Art. L.524-1), the use of products containing PFAS has been progressively banned, with key deadlines:
- Since January 1, 2026: ban on placing certain products containing PFAS on the market (including cosmetic products).
- From 2030: extension to textiles and other industrial uses (with exemptions for essential uses).
- REACH Regulation (EU): a “universal” PFAS restriction is currently being assessed by the ECHA, strengthening control and traceability obligations across supply chains.
- Firefighting foams: gradual ban in the EU, with a regulatory threshold of 1 mg/L for the sum of PFAS.
We invite you to contact us to find out the applicable thresholds for your product and to discuss with our experts how they should be interpreted in relation to your matrix 📞📧.
PFAS analysis: which matrices should you entrust to FILAB?
Identifying PFAS compounds requires specific extraction protocols depending on your industry. As a PFAS expert laboratory, FILAB works on a wide variety of complex industrial matrices:
- Materials and packaging: testing of polymers, textiles, and food-contact packaging.
- Formulations and finished products: regulatory compliance analysis (REACH) for cosmetics or chemical products.
Whether you are looking for a responsive PFAS testing lab for routine checks or a PFAS expert lab to develop methods on atypical matrices, our engineers adapt to your needs.
Expertise, evidence and traceabilityUpdated: June 2026
Trust FILAB laboratory for your analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
Entrusting your per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) analysis to FILAB laboratory means relying on technical expertise, a documented quality framework and expert interpretation of results to support industrial, quality or regulatory decisions.
An expert at your service
Expertise Manager
Barbara Beauvais supports per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) analysis projects.
An expert at your side
Expertise Manager
Barbara Beauvais supports projects for the analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Our 4-step approach:
- Discussion of your challenges and constraints.
- Proposal for a suitable analytical protocol and quotation.
- Performance of the analysis and expert review of the results.
- Delivery of a detailed, usable and traceable report.
Avis vérifiés
Our clients’ reviews
"Very responsive laboratory, with excellent analysis quality and deadlines met. Communication is smooth, the technical explanations are clear, and the team knows how to adapt to specific needs. I recommend them for their professionalism and reliability!"
"Clear and precise deliverable, delivered on time. I recommend them."
Transparency & contactLast verified: June 2026
Where to find us and how to contact us
FILAB is an independent, accredited physical laboratory located in France. All the contact details below allow you to verify our identity and submit your request.
FILAB Laboratory
Ecoparc Dijon Bourgogne
80 rue Jean-Louis Auguste Petitjean
21850 Saint-Apollinaire, France
Tél. +33 (0)3 80 52 32 05
FAQ
What is a PFAS analysis in the laboratory?
A PFAS analysis aims to detect and quantify per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances present in a matrix (liquid, solid, powder, polymer, etc.) using chromatography techniques coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
Where are PFAS found?
These substances are used for their non-stick, water-repellent, and heat-resistant properties in:
- non-stick coatings (cookware, technical textiles);
- cosmetics and food packaging ;
- industrial additives (paints, varnishes, lubricants).
What types of samples can be tested for PFAS?
The FILAB laboratory analyzes PFAS in pharmaceutical products, cosmetics, solvents, food packaging, and polymer materials.
What techniques are used for PFAS analysis?
analysis are carried out mainly by LC-MS/MS or by ionic combustion (CLI) for total fluorine determination. These methods enable detection at thresholds of 1 to 10 ppb depending on the matrix.
Which PFAS are measured by the laboratory?
The FILAB laboratory offers the analysis of 36 PFAS, including the 20 substances mentioned in the European Water Directive, such as PFOA, PFOS, PFHxA, PFNA or PFDA.
What regulatory changes concern PFAS?
Since February 2025, French law has provided for the gradual ban of PFAS in cosmetics, clothing textiles and ski waxes as of January 1, 2026.
Why carry out a PFAS analysis?
In the event of regulatory non-compliance, a process improvement, or a product failure, manufacturers may need to carry out analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
Subject to significant regulatory constraints, monitoring their presence is therefore essential.
Carrying out these substance checks requires precise tools, capable of reaching ppm or even ppb levels. At FILAB, they are carried out by LC-MSMS and we are able to achieve a quantification limit of 1 to 10 ppb depending on the matrices.
The filab advantages
A highly qualified team
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
(Staves available on www.cofrac.com - Accreditation number: 1-1793)
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
Tailor-made support
Video debriefing available with the expert
Ask for your quote