DIN has published method 38409-59 describing the determination of adsorbable organically bound halogens by combustion ion chromatography (CIC) in different water samples. AOX and AOF analysis according to the new standard is performed in two steps, preconcentration of the adsorbable organic halogens on activated carbon, followed by direct combustion and subsequent ion chromatographic (CIC) analysis. A free Metrohm application note describes the new method and its application for the analysis of AOF, which provides a fast and economical solution for non-targeted PFASs screening.

Organohalogen compounds are widespread, persistent, and potentially toxic for humans and the environment. However, the techniques commonly used to monitor adsorbable organic halogens (AOX) can only determine the sum of organically bound chlorine, bromine, and iodine. These techniques do not provide individual results for AOCl, AOBr, and AOI, respectively, nor on the organofluorine (AOF) content.

DIN method 38409-59 describes a validated method for comprehensive AOX analysis including AOF by CIC. Analysis by CIC allows the determination of the sum parameter as well as the individual concentrations of adsorbable organically bound fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and iodine in different waters.

Advantages of the new standard method:

• Selective determination of AOF, AOCl, AOBr, and AOI in waters
• AOF as fast non-targeted screening for PFASs
• Efficient and low-maintenance AOX determination
• Easy-to-use, robust, and efficient
  

Further information on the application:

Application Note AN-CIC-033 – Monitoring PFASs in water sources: Non-targeted adsorbable organic fluorine (AOF) analysis by CIC

Application Note AN-CIC-034 – Fast analysis of AOX in waters by CIC

White Paper WP-078 – Adsorbable organic fluorine (AOF) – a sum parameter for non-targeted screening of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) in waters

White Paper WP-081 – Fast assessment of adsorbable organically bound halogens (AOX) in waters