A new ASTM International standard aims to provide users with a road map for planning and executing assessments of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer products and articles.

The new standard, which will soon be published as F3700, was developed by ASTM’s consumer products committee (F15).

PFAS are a group of chemicals resistant to heat, grease, oil and water. PFAS are used in many consumer products and do not break down in the environment. PFAS have been linked to serious health effects in living things.

“The new standard will be of critical importance to manufacturers, consumers, laboratories, and regulatory bodies,” says ASTM member and F15.81 Subcommittee co-chair Rock Vitale. The other subcommittee co-chair, Jeff Stull agrees: “The focus on PFAS in various consumer products is happening incredibly fast with a clear need for informing various organizations for optimally guiding appropriate test approaches related to a myriad of different materials ranging from cosmetics to automobiles.”

He continued, “Regulators are proposing limits regarding minimizing or eliminating organic fluorine and PFAS in consumer products/articles. This work product in the form of a standard guide will provide the road map needed to assess the presence/absence of PFAS in consumer articles/products.”

ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. Inquire about becoming a member here. Vitale encourages personnel with a strong background in chemistry to join the subcommittee, as well as current and future work groups.