Determination of AFFF Components Using a Multivariate Analysis Approach Following LC-QTof MS Acquisition

Aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) have been implemented in both military and commercial fire-fighting activities to extinguish flammable liquid fuels. However, uses of these formulations have resulted inadvertently in the release of contaminants into the environment due to migration from the site of application. The various formulations of AFFFs consist of numerous fluorocarbon and hydrocarbon compounds. Characterising the unique as well as common components of AFFFs that are currently implemented is the starting point to tracking these constituents through various environmental and biological compartments. In this work, seven AFFF mixtures were analysed using QTof MS in order to obtain full spectral acquisition from which a multivariate analysis approach could be taken to identify unique components within the mixtures.

This work was presented at 35th International Symposium on Halogenated Persistent Organic Pollutants (Dioxin 2015) from August 23rd to 28th in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Download the poster here.