Educational scope: Laboratory documentation, analytical methods, and research recordkeeping only.
A measurement reference
Reference materials provide known or characterized properties that laboratories can use for calibration, method assessment, quality control, or assignment of values to other materials.
Certified and noncertified values
NIST distinguishes certified reference materials from other reference materials and research-grade test materials. Their documentation, traceability, uncertainty, and intended uses are not interchangeable.
Match the material to the purpose
The required characterization depends on how the material will be used. Laboratories should evaluate certificates, uncertainty statements, traceability, storage instructions, and expiration or validity information.
References and further reading
Research-use notice
This material is educational and does not provide medical, dosing, administration, or human-use guidance.
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