As PFAS regulations tighten globally and detection limits drop into the low nanogram per liter range, ensuring that groundwater samples remain free from equipment-related contamination has become more important than ever. Even tiny traces of PFAS from pumps, tubing, clothing, or handling are enough to compromise results, leading to false positives, costly re-sampling, and reputational risk.
To help laboratories, consultants, and field teams generate reliable PFAS data, Royal Eijkelkamp introduces the PFAS-Free MP 1 Submersible Pump*: a deep-well sampling solution independently tested not to leach PFAS according to EPA Method 1633.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a large group of synthetic chemicals developed in the 1940s and widely used in consumer and industrial products such as non-stick cookware, paints, firefighting foams, food packaging, and waterproof clothing (EPA,2024)(OECD, 2023).
PFAS are extremely stable due to their carbon–fluorine (C–F) bonds, among the strongest in organic chemistry (~485 kJ/mol), making them resistant to:
Because these compounds resist degradation, they accumulate in soil, water, and living organisms, earning the nickname “forever chemicals.” PFAS exhibit a dual hydrophobic and lipophobic nature, meaning they neither dissolve easily in water nor bind readily to fats. This duality allows them to migrate through soils and groundwater in complex ways (RSC, 2020).
Exposure to PFAS has been linked to serious health effects, including cancer, liver damage, thyroid disease, immune system suppression, and developmental issues for children (WHO, 2023).
Governments worldwide are introducing strict limits to address PFAS contamination.
European standards are among the strictest globally. The EU Drinking Water Directive (2020/2184) sets limits of:
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is evaluating a proposed comprehensive PFAS restriction under REACH, expected to phase out most non-essential uses.
These evolving regulations underscore the urgent need for verified PFAS-free sampling tools to ensure data integrity and compliance.
Our PFAS-Free* MP 1 pump enables accurate groundwater sampling at depths greater than 8 m, where peristaltic pumps are unsuitable.
This version of the MP 1 has been redesigned to minimizing contamination risk by eliminating PTFE. All water-contacting components have been replaced with PFAS free components.
By using the PFAS-Free* MP 1, you can significantly reduce the risk of equipment-related contamination.
* The water-contacting part of this product consists of PFAS-Free components in accordance with the EPA Method 1633.
To maintain data integrity and prevent cross-contamination:
Recommended Maintenance: After 25 running hours, check the peak materials for any damage and clean them with water. After 50-75 operational hours, we recommend replacing the peak materials to extend your pump’s life.
Note: The pump can be ordered with or without LDPE tubing.
The pump has been specially cleaned and tested by an accredited laboratory to comply with EPA Method 1633 (tested on 40 PFAS compounds), as documented in our whitepaper detailing the cleaning process.
However, due to the inherent difficulty of completely avoiding external contamination, we cannot guarantee absolute PFAS-free product.
Additionally, since contamination with PFAS can occur during use or transport, we strongly recommend cleaning the pump according to standard groundwater sampling procedures before each use. Final responsibility for contamination control lies with the end-user.
The PFAS Testing Whitepaper describes:
Our cleaning procedure, testing scope, and analytical results, ensuring complete transparency.
Royal Eijkelkamp is committed to advancing safe groundwater sampling practices.
Through the PFAS-Free* MP 1 Pump and our transparent testing documentation, we help you:
