ISO 18127 Revolutionizes Water Testing for Organohalogens with CIC

The release of ISO 18127 marks a significant advancement in water quality testing, particularly for detecting adsorbable organically bound halogens (AOX and AOF), thanks to the involvement of Metrohm CIC experts. This new standard employs combustion ion chromatography (CIC), providing a more comprehensive approach by including the detection of fluorine, crucial for pre-screening per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination.

Prior to ISO 18127, tests such as EN ISO 9562 or EPA 1650 focused solely on quantifying chlorine, bromine, and iodine, overlooking fluorine content. With rising environmental concerns about PFAS—known for their persistence and potential health risks—there was an urgent need for a broader analytical method. Developed in collaboration with industry players like Metrohm, ISO 18127 builds on the foundations of DIN 38409-59. It allows the analysis of a variety of water types, including groundwater, surface water, and wastewater. The standard not only assesses AOX but also provides insights into individual halogen contributions, which traditional titration methods failed to offer.

ISO 18127 is a game-changer for environmental monitoring, specifically in identifying and managing hazardous organohalogens in water. By offering a detailed breakdown of various halogens and focusing on the increasingly problematic PFAS, this standard supports efforts in safeguarding public health and the environment, while also helping industries adopt more effective water treatment strategies.