Tracking PFAS in Ski Wax Products

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large and complex group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in consumer products since the 1950s. PFAS are used in various everyday products from anti-stick cookware to stain resistant clothes (1). However, constant exposure can be dangerous, as PFAS have been linked to various diseases, such as an increased risk of certain cancers (2).

PFAS have been used in ski wax, which is often used to lower wear and tear in ski equipment. The chemicals hold non-stick properties, which can help skis glide better. Ski wax containing PFAS is no longer manufactured in the United States, and the International Ski and Snowboard Federation, which oversees elite alpine sport competition, banned waxes containing PFAS for the 2023–2024 season (2).

A recent study, “A multi-platform approach for the comprehensive analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and fluorine mass balance in commercial ski wax products,” used various analytical techniques to detect and quantify the presence of PFAS and fluorine in ski wax products (1). Lead author Raquel Gonzalez de Vega of the University of Graz in Graz, Austria, spoke with LCGC International about the process of analyzing ski wax products for PFAS.

Why has targeted analysis been the primary focus of product characterization, rather than non-targeted analysis?

Targeted analysis has been the primary focus of product characterization for several important reasons. First, it allows for the precise identification and quantification of specific known PFAS compounds present in ski wax. This level of precision is crucial for understanding the exact composition of the product, which in turn is vital for regulatory compliance. Regulatory bodies have set stringent limits on the presence of certain PFAS compounds because of their hazardous nature. Targeted analysis ensures that manufacturers can accurately demonstrate that their products meet these legal requirements, thereby avoiding any legal repercussions.

Furthermore, targeted analysis provides clear and actionable data on the presence and concentrations of specific PFAS compounds. This information is essential for evaluating their potential impact on health and the environment. Many PFAS are known to be highly persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic, posing significant risks to both human health and wildlife. By focusing on these specific compounds, targeted analysis allows researchers and regulators to assess exposure risks more effectively and develop appropriate safety guidelines and regulatory policies.

Another critical reason for focusing on targeted analysis is its reproducibility and comparability. The methods used in targeted analysis, such as liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), are standardised and validated, ensuring consistent and reliable results across different studies and laboratories. This consistency is important for building a robust database of PFAS concentrations in ski waxes and other products, facilitating better regulatory oversight and industry practices.

What has been done to prohibit ski wax’s further production using PFAS?

In response to the growing health and environmental concerns associated with PFAS, significant regulatory measures have been put in place to prohibit the production of ski waxes containing these substances. The European Union (EU) introduced Regulation 2020/1021, known as the persistent organic pollutants (POPs) regulation, which targets chemicals that persist in the environment, bioaccumulate in organisms, and pose risks to human health and the environment. This regulation specifically includes various PFAS compounds used in ski waxes. Additionally, the EU’s EC Regulation 1907/2006, known as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals), imposes stringent controls on the manufacture, import, and use of chemical substances, including PFAS. These regulations require manufacturers to identify and manage the risks associated with the chemicals they produce and sell, leading to significant restrictions on fluorinated waxes.

Complementing these efforts, the International Ski Federation (FIS) implemented a ban on products containing “C8 fluorocarbons/PFOA” at all FIS events starting from the 2021–2022 season. This ban was a critical step in reducing the immediate use of some of the most hazardous PFAS compounds in competitive skiing. Building on this, the FIS introduced a total ban on all fluorinated waxes in competitive skiing, effective from the 2023–2024 season. These comprehensive regulatory measures aim to mitigate the risks associated with PFAS in ski waxes by significantly reducing their production, use, and environmental release, thereby protecting both human health and the ecosystem.

Are there alternatives to using PFAS in ski wax and similar materials?

Yes, there are alternatives to using PFAS in ski wax and similar materials. Researchers and manufacturers are actively exploring and developing non-fluorinated waxes that aim to provide similar performance benefits as PFAS-based waxes. These alternatives include hydrocarbon-based waxes, which rely on long chains of hydrogen and carbon to achieve a degree of slipperiness and durability. Another promising category is biodegradable waxes, which are designed to break down more easily in the environment, thereby reducing their ecological footprint. Additionally, some alternatives incorporate environmentally friendly additives that enhance the performance of these waxes, such as natural oils and resins. Although these alternatives may not yet fully match the performance of PFAS-based waxes under all conditions, ongoing research and development are making significant progress. Advances in material science and chemistry are gradually closing the performance gap, making non-fluorinated waxes increasingly viable for both recreational and competitive skiing.

What challenges did you face in your research?

One of the primary challenges in our research was the complexity of accurately characterising and quantifying the diverse range of PFAS compounds present in ski waxes. PFAS compounds can vary widely in their chemical structure and properties, requiring the use of multiple advanced analytical techniques to achieve a comprehensive understanding. Moreover, the proportion of total fluorine in the wax attributed to these substances remains unclear. Thus, in our study, we presented a comprehensive characterisation of PFAS and F in commercial ski wax products by using a multiplatform approach. Liquid chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry (LC-IMS-MS) was used for the determination of target PFAS. Extractable organic fluorine (EOF) and total fluorine (TF) were determined to assess the fraction of identifiable PFAS as well as the fractions of not-yet-identify or non-extractable PFAS. Additionally, the comparison of fluorine analysis by combustion ion chromatography (CIC), inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICPMS) and 19F-nuclear magnetic resonance (19F-NMR) was assessed along with the use of pyrolysis gas chromatography (GC)–MS and GC-atomic emission detector (AED) for a more holistic investigation about the PFAS and the total fluorine burden in ski wax products. Each technique provided unique insights into the fluorinated compounds, but combining and interpreting data from these various sources was complex and demanding. Another significant challenge was the need for precise calibration and validation of these analytical methods to ensure that the results were reliable and reproducible. This involved extensive testing and refinement to optimise the accuracy of each method. Additionally, integrating the data from these diverse techniques into a cohesive understanding of PFAS and F presence and behavior in ski waxes posed a considerable challenge, requiring sophisticated data analysis and interpretation skills.

What still needs to be done?

Further research is needed to enhance the performance of non-fluorinated alternatives to PFAS in ski waxes to ensure they can fully replace PFAS-based products without compromising skiing performance. This involves not only developing new materials, but also rigorously testing them under various conditions to ensure their efficacy and durability. Continued development and validation of analytical methods for detecting and quantifying a broader range of PFAS compounds, including emerging and lesser-known variants, are also essential. Such methods will help in monitoring and managing PFAS more effectively. Additionally, ongoing environmental monitoring is crucial to assess the long-term impact of PFAS residues from historical use and to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Public education and awareness campaigns about the risks associated with PFAS and the benefits of transitioning to safer alternatives are also important. These campaigns can help consumers make informed choices and support the shift towards safer products.

Was there anything that surprised you about this research that our readers should know?

One surprising finding in our research was the persistence and widespread presence of residual PFAS impurities, such as perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) with carbon chain lengths ranging from 6 to 18, in commercially available ski waxes. Despite regulatory efforts and the development of alternatives, these compounds were still prevalent, highlighting the challenges of eliminating PFAS from these products. This persistence underscores the need for continued vigilance and innovation in both regulation and product development. Another discovery was the effectiveness of combining multiple analytical techniques to achieve a comprehensive understanding of PFAS composition and fluorine mass balance in ski waxes. This multiplatform approach proved invaluable in accurately characterising the complex mixture of PFAS present, demonstrating the importance of using a suite of analytical tools in environmental and product safety research. This comprehensive approach not only provided a deeper insight into the specific PFAS compounds present but also highlighted the intricate interplay between different analytical techniques, underscoring the complexity of PFAS and F analysis.

References

(1) Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). National Insititute of Environmental Health Sciences 2024. https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/pfc (accessed 2024-8-13)

(2) Persellin, K. Demand Grows for Ski, Snowboard Wax Without ‘Forever Chemicals’. EWG 2024. https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news/2024/02/demand-grows-ski-snowboard-wax-without-forever-chemicals (accessed 2024-8-13)

(3) De Vega, R. G.; Plassmann, M.; Clases, D.; Zangger, K.; et al. A Multi-Platform Approach for the Comprehensive Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Fluorine Mass Balance in Commercial Ski Wax Products. Anal. Chim. Acta 2024, 1314, 342754. DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2024.342754

About the Interviewee

Raquel Gonzalez de Vega is an analytical chemist and received her PhD in 2017 at the University of Oviedo (Spain). She then became a postdoc at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) (Australia), where she subsequently worked as a lecturer from 2020. Since 2021, she has been a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Graz (Austria). Her research is focused on the development and application of new methodologies based on mass spectrometry detection, including trace elements and speciation analysis, nanotechnology and bioimaging techniques.