What is the difference between PFAS-free and PFAS non-detected? How to read documents before choosing a fire extinguishing agent
Currently, PFAS has become an issue that people are increasingly paying attention to and asking questions about when purchasing fire extinguishing agents, clean agent fire extinguishers, or clean agent fire suppression systems, due to the use of advertising slogans such as “PFAS-free”, “PFAS non-detected”, “eco-friendly”, “safe”, “clean”, or “non-toxic”.
This article is prepared to explain the meanings of PFAS-free and PFAS non-detected.
The EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) explains that PFAS is a large group of chemicals, not a single substance, and the analytical testing of PFAS is limited by the testing method, the list of substances analyzed, and the sample type. Therefore, it is necessary to read documents thoroughly before making any purchasing decision related to fire extinguishing agents or clean agent fire suppression systems. You can learn more at (epa.gov).
What is PFAS? (Simple Edition)
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. It is a large group of synthetic chemicals, not just a single chemical. According to the EPA, there are thousands of different PFAS, which are used in a wide variety of commercial and industrial products. Some of these substances persist in the environment, making study and risk assessment complex (epa.gov).
For those who are in the process of purchasing fire extinguishing agents, the key point is not to interpret the term "PFAS" too broadly, nor should you blindly believe claims that a product is "PFAS-free" or "PFAS non-detected" without reliable supporting documentation. You should verify clearly which substances the document refers to, what testing method was used, and whether the test results cover the specific product model you are purchasing.
What is PFAS-free?
It means products, goods, or packaging that are free of PFAS, which are synthetic chemicals known for their durability and resistance to degradation.
What is PFAS non-detected?
It means products, goods, or environments that have been tested and no PFAS was found, or was found in negligible amounts.
What is the difference between PFAS-free and PFAS non-detected?
Key Aspect | PFAS-free | PFAS non-detected |
Core Meaning | A claim of "containing no PFAS ingredients" | An analytical result of "not detected" |
Required Verification Documents | Must have clear supporting documentation | Must have a Lab Report or Certificate |
Use in Purchasing Decisions | Can be used when complete and reliable supporting documents are provided | Can be used when the limitations and conditions of the test results are understood |
Why "non-detected" requires looking at the testing method and Detection Limit
Testing Method
The US EPA explains that PFAS analysis includes both Targeted Analysis and Non-targeted Analysis. Targeted Analysis measures only pre-specified substances. Once the analysis is complete, it is not possible to retroactively search for other substances outside the specified list (epa.gov).
Therefore, if a Lab Report states "non-detected", it is necessary to check whether it was a Targeted test and how many PFAS substances were analyzed in total.
Detection Limit / Reporting Limit
Detection Limit or Reporting Limit is the lowest concentration level that a specific testing method can detect or report.
If a test report can measure down to a certain level, showing the result as non-detected means "no substance was found at a concentration exceeding that level."
Sample Type
PFAS test results depend on the Sample Type, such as liquids, finished chemical products, water, soil, materials, or finished goods. The EPA states that PFAS analytical methods are developed to differ based on the environmental media collected, such as Drinking Water, Wastewater, Groundwater, Soil, Sediment, and Fish Tissue (epa.gov).
Therefore, for fire extinguishing agents, buyers should verify what sample was tested and if it matches the type of product they intend to purchase.
Certificates and Lab Reports
A Certificate or Lab Report should specify all crucial details, including the laboratory name, testing date, testing method, list of substances tested, Detection / Reporting Limit, product name, and manufacturing batch/lot.
Questions to Ask Vendors Before Purchasing
Before purchasing fire extinguishing agents, clean agent fire extinguishers, or clean agent fire suppression systems, you should ask vendors at least the following key questions:
Does this product model have a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?
If the product is stated to be "PFAS-free" or "PFAS non-detected", is there a valid Certificate or Lab Report supporting this?
If the product is PAF-222 / FK5112 / FK-5-1-12 / Perfluorohexanone, how is this chemical named in the documentation?
Are there any limitations, special conditions, or notes specified in the test report?
How does this relate to clean agent fire extinguishers?
Clean agent fire extinguishers and clean agent fire suppression systems are often selected for installation in areas with electrical equipment, electronic devices, or high-value assets because buyers prioritize agents that leave no messy residue, are safe for use around electrical equipment, and avoid secondary damage after discharge.
However, with current questions regarding PFAS, buyers should thoroughly inspect supporting documents separately, rather than hastily assuming that all clean agents are automatically PFAS-free or PFAS non-detected.
For products related to PAF Global, such as PAF-222, FK5112, FK-5-1-12, or Perfluorohexanone
Topics to read next after understanding "PFAS-free" and "PFAS non-detected"
After understanding the meanings of PFAS-free and PFAS non-detected, we recommend studying the following related topics concerning clean fire extinguishing agents, safety data sheets, and product purchasing guidelines:
What is PAF-222?
Suitable for those who want to understand the clean agent fire extinguishing products of PAF GLOBAL.What is FK5112? / What is FK-5-1-12?
Suitable for those who want to understand the chemical names and basic technical terminology of clean agents.What is Perfluorohexanone?
Suitable for those who want to understand the chemical name of the agent in depth.Clean Agent Fire Extinguishers
Suitable for those who want to purchase clean agent fire extinguishers to protect electrical equipment and areas in which chemical powder residues are unwanted.Clean Agent Fire Suppression Systems
Suitable for organizations wanting to design and install permanent fire suppression systems, as well as those looking for document verification guidelines for procurement.What is a Carcinogen-free Fire Extinguishing Agent?
Suitable for those who want to understand the definition of fire extinguishing agents that are "carcinogen-free" or "non-carcinogenic."Contact for Consultation
Suitable for requesting SDS documents, Certificates, or product documentation from PAF GLOBAL.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is PFAS-free?
PFAS-free is a claim that a product or chemical contains no PFAS substances within specified boundaries and criteria. However, this claim must be clearly supported by evidence, such as Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Certificates, or Laboratory Reports.
2. What is PFAS non-detected?
PFAS non-detected refers directly to analytical results showing no PFAS detected under the specific conditions of the testing method, the list of substances analyzed, the sample type, and the Detection Limit / Reporting Limit used in that specific analysis.
3. Does "non-detected" mean there is absolutely no PFAS dynamically?
No. The term non-detected does not mean the substance concentration is absolute zero. It only means "no analyzed substance was found at a concentration level higher than the detection limit of that specific testing method."
4. Are all clean agent fire extinguishers PFAS-free?
Each type of clean agent fire extinguisher or clean agent is composed of different chemical properties and components. Therefore, it is necessary to verify the reference documents of each specific product on a case-by-case basis.