Inside the Lab: The Eurofins October Newsletter
Welcome to our October roundup! This month, we are proud to share the full scope of our commitment to "Testing for Life." From groundbreaking work in PFAS destruction and our new Center of Excellence for radon testing to expert Q&As on emerging contaminants and the advanced science protecting our healthcare workers, this newsletter showcases the innovation and expertise at the heart of what we do. Dive in to explore our latest capabilities, technical insights, and event highlights from a busy and impactful month.
🧪 Our Expertise in Dioxins & Furans Analysis
As persistent and highly toxic environmental pollutants, dioxins and furans require testing with an exceptional level of precision. With strict regulations and the fact that over 90% of human exposure can come from food, accurate analysis is essential for public health. Eurofins Environment Testing meets this challenge with over 30 years of experience in organic extractions and a combined fleet of more than twenty state-of-the-art high-resolution mass spectrometers across three premier labs. We ensure defensible data through specialized preparation, rigorous quality controls, and analysis by methods like EPA 1613B and SW-846 Method 8290A. Our teams can provide detailed results, including all 17 target isomers and toxic equivalents (TEQ), to meet your project's unique requirements.
🎯 Advancing Metals Analysis with Our Specialty Lab in Seattle, WA
When compliance hinges on ultra-low detection limits, precision is non-negotiable. The Eurofins Seattle Specialty Metals Lab is your partner for complex environmental projects, specializing in high-precision, ultra-trace metals analysis. We understand that effective remediation strategies require more than just total metals data; they require a deeper understanding of speciation and bioavailability. Our lab is equipped with advanced technology and a deep understanding of EPA 1600 Series methods to provide the lowest, most reliable reporting limits available. This includes comprehensive analysis for ultra-trace mercury and methylmercury using EPA Methods 1631 & 1630, arsenic speciation to differentiate species like As(III)/As(V) , and selenium speciation to assess mobility and toxicity. We also provide crucial insights through bioaccessibility testing for arsenic and lead in soils and ultra-low trace metals determination in complex matrices like fresh and saline waters. Our long-standing expertise in rigorous contamination control ensures the data you receive is actionable and defensible.
🔬 Understanding the Invisible Threat of Microplastics
This October, we completed our "Microplastics Guide: A to Z" series to help tackle one of the most fragmented pollutants impacting our world. As experts in environmental analysis, we are committed to providing the knowledge needed to protect our planet. This five-part educational series broke down essential terminology—from A for Additives and B for Bioaccumulation to W for Wastewater and Z for Zooplankton—providing the practical information you need to mitigate risks and ensure compliance.
But how do you fight something you can’t see? To complement the series, we also released an "Inside Microplastics Testing" video. This feature gives you a look inside our state-of-the-art clean room and the cutting-edge technology, like Raman and LDIR, that we use to track these tiny plastic invaders. At Eurofins Environment Testing, we believe accurate data is the only way for industries, governments, and consumers to make the right moves to protect public health. We invite you to watch the full video to see how we deliver the most precise microplastics analysis.
🏭 Addressing PFAS in Wastewater and Biosolids
The focus on PFAS sources is increasingly shifting to wastewater and biosolids, creating a significant challenge for municipalities and industrial dischargers. As regulations tighten, generating defensible data to identify and manage these emerging contaminants is more critical than ever.
With over 25 years of experience and more than 1.1 million PFAS samples analyzed, Eurofins Environment Testing provides the robust analytical solutions needed to navigate this complex matrix. We offer a comprehensive suite of services, including targeted analysis by EPA Method 1633A , extended analyte lists up to 100 PFAS compounds , and advanced tools like the TOP Assay , Total Organic Fluorine (TOF) by EPA Method 1621 , and Non-Targeted Analysis. We utilize Isotope Dilution quantitation to ensure the most accurate results and provide a 10-business-day turnaround, with rush capacity available upon request.
🐠 Safeguarding Ecosystems with Aquatic Toxicology
Is your wastewater a silent threat to aquatic life? The NPDES permit program requires Whole Effluent Toxicity (WET) testing to understand the true aggregate impact of your discharge. This testing measures real-world effects, like lethality (acute toxicity) or impaired reproduction (chronic toxicity), on frontline organisms like fish, water fleas, and green algae. At Eurofins Environment Testing BioAquatics, our NELAC-accredited labs perform thousands of these tests, spanning 15 marine and freshwater species. But what happens when a WET test comes back positive? Our experts specialize in the detective work that follows. We pinpoint the specific contaminants causing the issue through Toxicity Identification Evaluations (TIEs) and then help you design protocols to remove them with Toxicity Reduction Evaluations (TREs). We don't just run tests; we partner with you to provide the defensible data needed for compliance and to resolve your toughest toxicity challenges.
🔬 Finding an End to "Forever Chemicals"
As "forever chemicals," PFAS pose a significant disposal challenge because they are designed to not break down. Eurofins Environment Testing is at the forefront of providing the science needed to solve this problem. We recently played a critical role in the US EPA's most comprehensive study on PFAS destruction, which was conducted at a hazardous waste incinerator. Our industry-leading air emissions laboratory in Knoxville, TN, a pioneer in PFAS air testing, analyzed stack gas samples using EPA Method OTM-50. The data provided by Eurofins was used to prove that an indicator compound, C2F6, was destroyed at a rate greater than 99.999%. Furthermore, our Knoxville and Sacramento labs supported OTM-45 and 1633 analyses, demonstrating 99.94% to 99.9999% destruction rates for nine long-chain PFAS. This close collaboration with regulatory authorities is a vital step in understanding the science behind PFAS destruction and reinforces our position as leaders in advanced, compliant PFAS testing.
Read the full article here! Written by Courtney Adkins, Client Services Manager for Eurofins Environment Specialty Testing in Knoxville, TN.
💬 Expert Q&A: Microplastics & Emerging Contaminants
This month, we sat down with two of our leading scientists for in-depth Q&As on today's most pressing environmental health concerns. We asked Bijan Jafari, Microplastics Department Manager, about the invisible threat of microplastics. He shed light on the most abundant types, the clearest health risks associated with exposure, and the innovative technology we use to find particles as small as 5μm.
We also asked Scientific Director Dr. Sarah Choyke about the next big chemical concern after PFAS. Dr. Choyke discussed where "forever chemicals" are commonly found (like fast food wrappers and cosmetics) and identified other concerning chemicals in household items like electronics and carpeting that are linked to hormone disruption and developmental delays.
Radon Testing Center of Excellence
Eurofins Environment Testing is excited to announce the acquisition of Alpha Energy Labs, a leading radon testing company. This strategic move significantly expands our capabilities in the U.S. by adding industry-leading radon test kits to our portfolio. This acquisition establishes a new Center of Excellence for Radon Testing, strengthening our commitment to "Testing for Life." We are thrilled to welcome the dedicated Alpha Energy Labs team to the Eurofins family!
🏥 Protecting Healthcare Professionals with Industrial Hygiene
A healthy environment of care isn't just for patients—it's for the dedicated healthcare workers who make it all possible. Everyday procedures can expose hospital staff to harmful, hidden contaminants, from Waste Anesthetic Gases and Ethylene Oxide in operating rooms to clinical lab solvents and formaldehyde. At Eurofins Built Environment Testing, we specialize in helping healthcare facilities identify and mitigate these hazards. Our team of Certified Industrial Hygienists (CIH) understands the unique operational challenges of healthcare settings. We don't just provide test results; we provide precise sampling, analysis, and the expert support to develop a sound sampling strategy and interpret the findings. We are committed to protecting those who care for us by providing the data needed to create a safer work environment.
Protecting Workers from Respirable Crystalline Silica
Respirable Crystalline Silica exposure affects over 2 million construction workers from common tasks like cutting concrete or grinding masonry, leading to serious health risks like silicosis and lung cancer. With both OSHA and MSHA significantly lowering the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) , accurate and sensitive testing is more critical than ever. Eurofins Built Environment Testing is at the forefront of this field with our advanced X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis. Our state-of-the-art, custom-manufactured PANalytical CubiX³ HR X-Ray Diffractometer can detect silica as low as 1 µg and complete samples in minutes, providing precise and rapid results. We use methods like OSHA ID-142 and NIOSH 7500 to ensure you can confidently meet new, lower PELs and protect your workforce. As an AIHA LAP accredited lab, we are committed to providing the defensible, high-quality data you need for all your compliance and safety needs.
Monitoring Air for Community & Environmental Safety
From industrial sites and remediation projects to emergency responses for wildfires or derailments, monitoring ambient air is essential for protecting public health. Eurofins Environment Testing offers comprehensive analysis, including benzene fenceline measurements (EPA 325) and analysis for over 90 accredited VOCs using EPA TO-15. Our expertise also extends to specialized monitoring for the atmospheric deposition of mercury and trace metals; we have been the trusted analytical lab for the NADP's Mercury Deposition Network since 1994. For emergencies, we are a leader in rapid response, maintaining a ready supply of sampling media and the capacity to report unplanned samples quickly, providing the fast, defensible data needed to make timely decisions about health and safety.
🧪 A Next-Generation Solution for USP 800 Compliance
USP General Chapter 800 sets rigorous standards for handling hazardous drugs (HDs) to protect healthcare workers, with surface wipe testing being a key element of compliance. To solve the complexity of this monitoring, Eurofins Built Environment Testing developed ChemoSure, a next-generation, all-in-one wipe sampling kit. This kit simplifies the entire process with a single-swab, broad-spectrum method that streamlines logistics and reduces training burdens. It detects 19 hazardous drugs and is notably able to differentiate individual platinum-based drugs like cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin. Each comprehensive kit includes the wetting agent, swab, template, vials, and a prepaid FedEx return label, empowering healthcare teams to run consistent, actionable, and less error-prone monitoring programs.
Read the full article here! Written by Leandro Magalhaes, Director of Customer Service for Eurofins Built Environment Testing in Ashland, Virginia.
🍂 October Highlights: Driving Science & Connection
October was a month of high-impact engagements and crucial team building for Eurofins Environment Testing! We proudly showcased our expertise at several key events. At the SOPHE 2025 Advocacy Summit, we championed the vital role of Wastewater Surveillance with public health leaders. Our team also dove deep into advanced analytical solutions at the RemTec & Emerging Contaminants Summit, connecting with industry peers and hosting a successful evening event. Furthermore, Eurofins Air Toxics led the way at the AVIP Conference, hosting the hands-on Vapor Intrusion Learning Lab for the third year to focus on challenging compounds "beyond VOCs." It was an energizing month of sharing insights and strengthening connections.
🌐 Stay Connected!
From tracking "forever chemicals" and microplastics to safeguarding worker health and announcing our new Radon Center of Excellence, Eurofins Environment Testing USA is dedicated to providing the highest quality data with exceptional service.
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Business Development Manager
1wGreat Newsletter ! Keep it up!
Owner, The Afcose Group
1wThis is good stuff. Thanks