In analytical testing, the quality of the result is only as strong as the standards used to support it. Whether a laboratory is testing environmental samples, minerals, metals, pharmaceuticals, food or industrial materials, certified reference materials (CRMs) provide an essential benchmark for measurement accuracy, traceability and quality control.
However, choosing between certified reference material suppliers involves more than comparing product prices or catalogue sizes. Laboratories need confidence that the material is fit for purpose, appropriately characterised, traceable and supported by reliable documentation.
What Are CRM Certified Reference Materials?
A Certified Reference Material is a reference material characterised using a metrologically valid procedure and accompanied by a certificate that states the certified property value, associated measurement uncertainty and metrological traceability.
This distinction matters. A standard product may be suitable for routine calibration, but a CRM provides a higher level of documented confidence when laboratories need to demonstrate the validity of their measurements.
CRMs are commonly used for:
- Instrument calibration and verification
- Analytical method validation and verification
- Quality control and ongoing performance monitoring
- Measurement uncertainty evaluation
- Detection of analytical bias
- Interlaboratory comparisons
- Supporting ISO/IEC 17025 laboratory requirements
For accredited laboratories, this documentation can become particularly important during audits and technical assessments.
Why ISO 17034 Matters When Selecting a Supplier
One of the most important questions to ask certified reference material suppliers is: How was the material produced and certified?
ISO 17034 specifies requirements for the competent and consistent production of reference materials. Accreditation provides independent assurance covering areas such as property-value assignment, homogeneity, stability, documentation and distribution.
For laboratories, this creates an important quality checkpoint: look beyond the product label and evaluate the producer’s accreditation and scope.
A CRM certificate should provide enough information for the laboratory to understand the certified value, uncertainty and traceability associated with the material. These details can then be incorporated into quality-control procedures and, where appropriate, measurement uncertainty calculations.
What Should You Look for in a CRM Supplier?
The right supplier should provide more than a bottle of calibration material. Consider these five factors:
| Selection Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Demonstrates that the producer operates against recognised competence requirements |
| Traceability | Connects assigned values to stated higher-order references through a documented chain |
| Uncertainty Data | Helps laboratories assess confidence in the certified value |
| Matrix and Concentration | Improves suitability for the actual analytical method and sample type |
| Documentation & Support | Makes implementation, QC and audit preparation easier |
Matrix matching is particularly important. A CRM that closely represents the sample matrix can provide more meaningful method verification and recovery information than an unsuitable material.
Reference Material Solutions for Different Laboratory Applications
Modern laboratories rarely need a single type of standard. Their requirements can span multiple analytical techniques and industries.
For example, environmental laboratories may require CRMs for water, soil, air and emissions analysis. Mining and metallurgy laboratories may need certified materials for ores, concentrates, alloys and elemental analysis. Pharmaceutical and life-science laboratories can require specialised standards for regulated testing and quality control.
Graham B Jackson provides access to a broad portfolio of reference material solutions, including products from ERA Waters, CPAchem and Inorganic Ventures. Its portfolio covers environmental CRMs, ICP standards, metallurgical CRMs and other analytical standards.
ARO Scientific also illustrates the breadth of modern CRM applications, with reference materials covering parameters such as acid number, base number, benzene, density, flash point, distillation, freezing point and sulphur-related testing.
This breadth allows laboratories to select materials according to the method, matrix, analyte and concentration rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach.
Why Local Technical Support Adds Value
For Australian laboratories, sourcing internationally recognised CRMs through an experienced local supplier can simplify procurement, technical matching, documentation and delivery.
Graham B Jackson (GBJ) supports laboratories across Australia and the Asia-Pacific region with CRM selection, technical assistance and access to internationally recognised brands. Its stated portfolio includes ERA Waters, CPAchem and Inorganic Ventures.
The practical advantage is that laboratories can discuss their analytical requirements before purchasing—particularly useful when they need matrix-matched standards, specific concentration ranges, custom solutions or documentation for an accreditation process.
Build Confidence into Every Measurement
A CRM is more than a calibration solution. It is part of the evidence chain behind an analytical result.
The right CRM certified reference materials help laboratories demonstrate that measurements are controlled, traceable and supported by documented scientific evidence. Selecting competent certified reference material suppliers therefore becomes an important component of laboratory quality management.
For laboratories looking for dependable reference material solutions, GBJ combines access to internationally recognised CRM manufacturers with local technical support and supply expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an RM and a CRM?
A reference material (RM) is sufficiently homogeneous and stable for its intended measurement purpose. A CRM additionally has certified property values established through a metrologically valid procedure, with associated uncertainty and traceability documented on a certificate.
Why is ISO 17034 important for CRMs?
ISO 17034 establishes requirements for organisations producing reference materials. Accreditation provides independent assurance that the producer has demonstrated competence in areas including characterisation, homogeneity, stability and value assignment.
How are CRMs used in ISO/IEC 17025 laboratories?
CRMs can support calibration, method validation, method verification, quality control, bias assessment and measurement traceability. ISO/IEC 17025 also places importance on using competent external providers for externally provided products and services affecting laboratory activities.
How do I choose the right CRM?
Consider the analytical method, analyte, concentration range, matrix, intended application, uncertainty requirements, shelf life and required traceability. Always review the relevant certificate and producer accreditation scope before purchasing.
Where can Australian laboratories source CRM solutions?
GBJ supplies analytical standards and CRMs from recognised manufacturers including ERA Waters, CPAchem and Inorganic Ventures, supporting applications across environmental testing, life sciences, pharmaceuticals, ICP analysis, minerals, metals and food and beverage testing.
Need help selecting the right CRM?
GBJ can help match the appropriate reference material to your analytical method, matrix, concentration and laboratory requirements.
For Further Enquiry Contact: sales@gbjpl.com.au