As regulations tighten and awareness of PFAS contamination grows, drinking water utilities, laboratories, and environmental consultants across the UK and Europe are increasing their capacity to monitor PFAS at ultra-low concentrations.
PFAS analysis requires specialist laboratory equipment, consumables, and analytical standards. While most testing is carried out by accredited laboratories, understanding who supplies PFAS testing equipment is increasingly important for organisations building or expanding analytical capability.
This article outlines the main categories of PFAS testing equipment and provides examples of suppliers active in the UK and European markets. Companies are mentioned as market examples only and are not ranked or endorsed.
Key Takeaways
- PFAS testing relies on advanced laboratory instrumentation due to extremely low detection limits.
- LC-MS/MS systems are central to most PFAS analytical workflows.
- Suppliers support PFAS testing through instruments, sample preparation systems, consumables, and analytical standards.
- UK and European laboratories typically work with a mix of global manufacturers and specialist providers.
What Equipment Is Used for PFAS Testing?
PFAS compounds are typically present in drinking water at parts-per-trillion concentrations, making them unsuitable for detection using routine water quality instruments.
Most PFAS testing is therefore carried out in specialist laboratories using advanced analytical techniques supported by strict contamination control procedures.
LC-MS/MS Systems
Liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is widely regarded as the gold standard for PFAS analysis. These systems provide the sensitivity and selectivity required to identify and quantify individual PFAS compounds at very low concentrations.
Examples of LC-MS/MS instrument manufacturers commonly used for PFAS analysis in the UK and Europe include:
- Thermo Fisher Scientific
- Agilent Technologies
- Waters Corporation
- Bruker
These manufacturers supply complete LC-MS/MS platforms, typically supported by regional application specialists and service teams.
Sample Preparation and Extraction Equipment
Sample preparation is a critical step in PFAS analysis. Equipment used at this stage may include solid-phase extraction (SPE) systems, automated extraction platforms, and filtration units designed to minimise contamination risk.
Suppliers active in sample preparation and extraction for PFAS workflows include:
- Biotage
- Gilson
- PerkinElmer
- Specialist SPE and automation providers
These systems help laboratories improve consistency, throughput, and reproducibility in PFAS testing.
Analytical Standards, Reagents, and Consumables
Certified reference materials, isotopically labelled standards, solvents, and PFAS-free consumables are essential for reliable PFAS analysis. Even trace contamination can affect results.
Examples of suppliers providing PFAS analytical standards and laboratory reagents include:
- LGC Standards
- Wellington Laboratories
- Merck / Sigma-Aldrich
These suppliers play a key role in supporting method validation, calibration, and regulatory compliance.
Types of PFAS Testing Equipment Suppliers
The PFAS testing supply chain includes several distinct supplier types, each supporting different aspects of the analytical workflow.
Analytical Instrument Manufacturers
These companies supply the core LC-MS/MS platforms used for PFAS analysis. In addition to hardware, they often provide software, method development support, training, and long-term service contracts.
Sample Preparation and Automation Specialists
Suppliers in this category focus on extraction, automation, and workflow optimisation. Their products are designed to reduce manual handling and improve reproducibility in high-throughput PFAS testing laboratories.
Standards and Chemical Suppliers
These companies produce certified PFAS standards, reagents, solvents, and consumables required for accurate quantification and quality assurance.
Regional Distributors and Service Providers
In the UK and Europe, laboratories often rely on regional distributors and service partners for installation, maintenance, validation, and ongoing technical support.
UK and European Market Considerations
Demand for PFAS testing equipment in the UK and Europe is being driven by evolving drinking water regulations, environmental monitoring programmes, and increased public scrutiny.
When selecting suppliers, laboratories and utilities often prioritise:
- Demonstrated PFAS application expertise
- Strong local service and technical support
- Compliance with international analytical standards
- Reliable long-term supply of consumables and standards
As a result, many organisations work with a combination of global manufacturers and specialist providers.
How PFAS Testing Fits into Wider Monitoring Programmes
PFAS testing equipment forms part of a broader monitoring and compliance strategy. Detection is typically followed by confirmatory testing, risk assessment, and, where necessary, treatment planning.
Understanding who supplies PFAS testing equipment helps stakeholders make informed decisions as PFAS monitoring becomes a routine requirement for drinking water quality management.
Conclusion
PFAS testing in the UK and Europe relies on advanced laboratory instrumentation, specialist sample preparation systems, and high-quality analytical standards supplied by a range of global and regional companies.
As regulatory expectations continue to evolve, demand for reliable PFAS testing equipment and experienced suppliers is expected to grow, making supplier knowledge an increasingly important part of PFAS monitoring strategies.
Related reading: What is PFAS in drinking water?
