May 28, 2025
The European Committee for Standardization (CEN) has published EN 17681-1:2025,Textiles and Textile Products — Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) — Part 1: Analysis of an Alkaline Extract Using Liquid Chromatography and Tandem Mass Spectrometry.
This document specifies a test method that includes the degradation of certain side-chain fluorinated polymers during extraction using simultaneous alkaline hydrolysis. It applies liquid chromatography (LC) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) to identify and quantify specific per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Table 2 lists the target PFAS that can be analyzed with this method.
The document includes significant technical changes to EN 17681-1:2022.
Key updates include:
- The procedure requires an extraction with simultaneous alkaline hydrolysis.
- Annex E, describing methanol extraction, has been added.
- Annex F, detailing the analysis of certain PFAS with gas chromatography and a mass selective detector (GC-MSD) based on EN 17681-2:2022, has been added.
- Most substance names have been aligned with EN 17892:2024.
- The reference to EN 17681-2 has been removed.
Which products are impacted?
Textile materials with treatments for water- or oil-repellent effects or stain-repellent coatings containing fluorine-based chemistries are primarily impacted. While these properties may not always be declared, these substances may still be present as contaminants in finished goods.
How does the new method impact compliance testing?
The newly developed method uses alkaline hydrolysis to break the covalent bonds between the polymer backbone and the fluorinated side chains. This results in higher concentrations of PFAS compared to the previous test method applied to the same sample.
How UL Solutions can help
UL Solutions can help you navigate PFAS regulations and mitigate compliance risks with our broad portfolio of chemical management and advisory services. We can also assist in developing a Restricted Substances List (RSL) to help minimize the risk of noncompliant goods entering the market.
Our services include support and training to help manufacturers, retailers and suppliers stay ahead of PFAS-related regulatory changes and upcoming restrictions. With UL Solutions, you can gain confidence in your ability to bring compliant products to market.
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