PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemical compounds that have been widely used since the 1940s. Often referred to as “forever chemicals”, these substances are extremely persistent in the environment and difficult to degrade. Their ubiquity and durability make them a major issue for chemical and environmental safety, both for industrial stakeholders and public authorities.
At OSE SERVICES, we support our clients in PFAS chemical analysis through an approach that combines on-site interventions, study contextualization and targeted interpretation of results. This methodology distinguishes us from conventional laboratories and allows us to deliver directly actionable information for risk management.
Understanding PFAS
PFAS include several thousand compounds characterized by a highly fluorinated carbon chain, which gives these substances unique properties: resistance to water, grease, heat and chemicals. These properties explain their widespread use in many industrial applications, such as:
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fluorinated firefighting foams,
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waterproof and stain-resistant coatings in the textile industry,
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certain consumer products with specific technical functions.
This exceptional chemical stability is also the reason why these substances are persistent in the environment and can bioaccumulate, justifying the need to analyze and manage them with caution.
When you need to contextualized chemical analysis with your issues: You need Experts like OSE Services team
PFAS chemical analysis is essential to identify risks and guide decision-making. What sets OSE SERVICES apart is our ability to embed each study within the specific context of our clients’ activities.
Rather than limiting ourselves to standard laboratory testing, we:
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investigate directly on site to perform sampling, ensuring representative samples;
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contextualize each study to reflect the client’s real processes, products and uses;
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carry out a targeted interpretation of results, providing operational insights tailored to risk management decisions.
This field-based and pragmatic approach links analytical data to industrial or operational realities, avoiding a simple list of results disconnected from context.
Examples of PFAS studies conducted
1. Replacement of fluorinated firefighting foams
A fire and rescue service (SDIS) contacted us to assess and secure the replacement of its fluorinated firefighting foam. Our work combined:
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on-site sampling and chemical analysis, ensuring representative results;
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evaluation of the product within the SDIS’s real operational context, including field use and technical constraints;
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targeted interpretation of results, identifying the safest and most suitable alternatives.
This case highlights the importance of combining scientific expertise with a deep understanding of client-specific activities.
2. Studies on powders in industrial environments
We conducted analyses on powders used in industrial settings in order to:
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detect PFAS traces,
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assess the potential for dispersion in air or on surfaces,
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guide operator protection measures.
On-site intervention made it possible to select the most representative sampling points, which is crucial to delivering relevant and actionable results.
3. On-site sampling at ICPE facilities
Facilities Classified for Environmental Protection (ICPE) require strict regulatory monitoring. OSE SERVICES regularly performs on-site sampling to:
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characterize the presence of PFAS in effluents, soils or sludge,
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assess regulatory compliance,
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provide recommendations adapted to the operational context of each facility.
This approach illustrates the importance of linking chemical analysis to the specific activities of each site.
4. Studies in the textile industry
Beyond traditional applications, we have also analyzed treated textile products designed to be waterproof or stain-resistant, in order to detect the presence of PFAS.
Each study is based on:
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targeted sampling within the industrial process or on finished products,
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interpretation of results according to actual uses and potential risks for the environment or end users.
Why are PFAS at the center of current concerns?
The persistence and ubiquity of PFAS make them a key issue for industrial players, authorities and risk managers. A detailed understanding of their presence and behavior makes it possible to:
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anticipate emerging chemical risks,
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secure processes, products and raw materials,
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ensure compliance with regulations on substances of concern.
The OSE SERVICES approach, combining on-site sampling, contextualization and targeted interpretation, provides a comprehensive and operational view of PFAS-related issues.
The added value of OSE Services in PFAS analysis and studies
PFAS represent a major challenge in terms of chemical and environmental safety. Their persistence and wide range of uses require rigorous, contextualized and interpreted chemical analysis.
At OSE SERVICES, our added value lies in:
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our ability to intervene directly on site,
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our approach integrating studies into the real context of client activities,
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our expertise in targeted interpretation, delivering actionable information for decision-making.
This methodology enables our clients to understand, anticipate and manage PFAS-related risks, ensuring a scientific, pragmatic and reliable approach to the issue of forever chemicals.