Metrohm Helps Develop New DIN Standard For Analysis Of Trifluoroacetic Acid (TFA) In Water

Metrohm has supported the development of the new DIN standard 38407-53 for TFA analysis in water samples with its technical expertise.

Metrohm, a leading supplier of precise measuring instruments from eastern Switzerland, has contributed its expertise to the development of the new DIN standard 38407-53. DIN 38407-53 is a standard method suitable for the analysis of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), a short-chain PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances) degradation product, in water samples. The development of this new standard represents an important step in the fight against environmental pollution.

Trifluoroacetic acid is increasingly recognized as an environmental pollutant. It is a degradation product of fluorinated chemicals, such as herbicides or PFAS. The persistence of TFA, which is mainly present in nature as an anion, and its possible accumulation in water sources raise serious concerns about its long-term ecological impacts. To meet these challenges, a reliable and accurate analysis method is essential.

Ion chromatography (IC) is an established method for the analysis of water samples, such as drinking water, surface water, or wastewater. It is used, for example, to determine the nitrate and phosphate content in water samples. In combination with tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), IC can be used for the analysis of trifluoroacetic acid in trace concentrations according to DIN 38407-53.

This new standard describes the analysis of trifluoroacetic acid by LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry) in the range of 0.1 to 3.0 μg/L. IC is one of the established and validated liquid chromatography methods mentioned in this standard. By using IC-MS/MS, the limit of quantification (LOQ) for the analysis of TFA is 0.06 μg/L- even lower than the range established by DIN 38407-53.

The new DIN 38407-53 standard will make it possible to analyze TFA on an internationally recognized and standardized basis and thus enable a well-founded assessment of the environmental impact of this substance. Metrohm is proud to play a leading role in the development of innovative analytical methods. Our technologies and solutions set industry standards and support our customers in fulfilling their environmental responsibilities. Since our founding by Bertold Suhner in 1943, we have been committed to precision and quality and are continuously striving to set new standards in chemical analysis.

About Metrohm
Metrohm is one of the world’s most trusted manufacturers of high-precision instruments for laboratory and process analysis. The company was founded in 1943 by engineer Bertold Suhner in Herisau, Switzerland, where it is headquartered to this day. Metrohm offers a compre-hensive portfolio of analytical technologies ranging from titration and ion chromatography to near-infrared and Raman spectroscopy, as well as several other techniques. Metrohm sells its products and provides services through its own local subsidiaries and exclusive distribu-tors in more than 120 countries worldwide. Our mission in a nutshell is helping customers from virtually every industry analyze and maintain the quality of their products at every stage in the manufacturing process and beyond. Since 1982, Metrohm has been owned 100% by the non-profit Metrohm Foundation. This foundation keeps to its purpose to support charitable, philanthropic, and cultural projects in eastern Switzerland and, above all, ensure the independence of the company.