The Development of Methodology Addressing the European Water Framework Directive 2013/39/EU

Oral Presentation

Prepared by C. Martins
Thermo Fisher Scientific, 355 River Oaks Parkway, San Jose, CA, 95134, United States


Contact Information: claudia.martins@thermofisher.com; 408-965-6240


ABSTRACT

The European Water Framework Directive 2013/39/EU lays down a strategy against the pollution of surface water to be applied to all European Union member states. It involves the identification of priority substances and the monitoring of different classes of contaminants at specific levels (Environmental Quality Standard - EQS). The introduction of new priority substances in combination with challenging EQSs led to a significant increase on the demand of a complete methodology that could address such analytical challenges. It also includes the first watch list that will be used for future prioritization exercises.

The different member states have the flexibility to apply an EQS for an alternative matrix or where relevant, an alternative biota taxon for example sub-phylum Crustacea, paraphylum “fish”, class Cephalopoda or class Bivalvia (mussels and clams).
The complete workflow makes use of specific sample preparation methodology in combination with mass spectrometry analysis. This presentation will focus on the discussion of the challenges encountered and ways to overcome such difficulties.