Non-Targeted Analysis Research

Currently there are thousands of chemicals in commerce and the environment for which there is little to no readily available exposure data. To address this challenge, EPA researchers are developing new methods to search for previously unknown or understudied chemicals.

Graphic illustration of molecular structures and chemical symbols

Researchers are advancing approaches for “non-targeted analysis” (NTA) that cover a much larger chemical space than traditional targeted methods, which often look for small, pre-defined sets of chemicals. NTA looks at thousands of chemicals at the same time using high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). Using these methods, researchers can find chemicals that have never been reported or noticed. NTA can identify and monitor compounds of emerging concern that are difficult to measure with traditional methods, giving decision makers the information to better assess and manage potential risks.

While NTA is a powerful tool, there is a greater degree of uncertainty with the results compared to targeted chemical measurements. Specifically, there may be increased uncertainty regarding the exact structures and concentrations of detected chemicals. NTA can be used as a first step for exploring samples and revealing and prioritizing new chemicals, followed by traditional targeted approaches to generate the highest quality measurement data for new chemicals of concern.

Researchers at the EPA are developing and improving NTA approaches to increase accessibility and create standardized methodologies for adoption by other laboratories. This expertise is then shared with partners and stakeholders to enable local, state, regional, and federal labs to employ NTA methods to protect human health and the environment.

Additional Resources

Non-Targeted Analysis Research

Safer Chemicals Research