Adsorbable organic fluorine (AOF): A sum parameter for non-targeted screening of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) in water

A large fraction of synthetic organofluorine substances is assumed to be covered by the sum of all adsorbable fluorine in waters (AOF). Measuring AOF is simpler and faster than targeted analysis methods, and also more sensitive than total fluorine (TF) determination (comprising all organic and inorganic F). Measurement of AOF in water samples as an initial screening step gives a fast overview of the actual amount of organic fluorinated compounds present. This can be followed by targeted analyses of individual PFASs if indicated by higher AOF concentrations.