Reliable analytical data is fundamental to environmental monitoring, mineral exploration and mining operations. Decisions about contamination, resource quality, processing and regulatory compliance can depend on results from a single laboratory report. But how can laboratories demonstrate that those results are accurate and traceable?
One of the most important tools is certified reference material (CRM).
CRMs provide laboratories with characterised materials and certified property values that can be used to validate methods, verify analytical performance, and support measurement traceability. For laboratories working with complex environmental and geological matrices, Graham B Jackson provides access to quality reference materials, helping laboratories choose suitable CRMs from a competent reference material producer as part of their quality assurance processes.
What Is a Certified Reference Material?
A certified reference material is a reference material characterised using a metrologically valid procedure for specified properties and accompanied by a certificate stating the certified value, its associated uncertainty and metrological traceability.
This distinction matters. A CRM is not simply a sample with an expected concentration. Its certified values are supported by defined characterisation and uncertainty information.
According to Australia’s National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA), reference materials can be used throughout the measurement process, including calibration, method validation, quality control and interlaboratory comparisons.
For laboratories, this makes CRMs valuable tools for demonstrating that analytical results are fit for purpose.
Why Are CRMs Important for Environmental Analysis?
Environmental samples can be highly variable. Soil, sediment, water and waste materials may contain multiple contaminants and elements at concentrations ranging from major components to trace levels.
A suitable certified reference material can help laboratories evaluate whether their analytical process is delivering reliable results.
Common applications include testing for:
- Arsenic
- Lead
- Cadmium
- Mercury
- Chromium
- Copper
- Nickel
- Zinc
- Nutrients and other environmental parameters
CRMs can be incorporated into quality-control programmes to monitor analytical bias, identify changes in laboratory performance and provide evidence supporting the validity of reported measurements.
The Role of CRMs in Mining and Geological Analysis
Mining laboratories face another challenge: matrix complexity.
An ore or geological sample can contain a combination of minerals and elements that influence sample preparation and instrumental response. A calibration solution alone may not replicate the behaviour of the actual sample matrix.
Matrix-matched CRMs can therefore provide a more meaningful check of the complete analytical workflow.
They are commonly used for:
- Ore-grade determination
- Exploration geochemistry
- Concentrate analysis
- Process control
- Geological characterisation
- Laboratory quality control
- Interlaboratory comparisons
For techniques such as XRF, ICP-OES, ICP-MS and AAS, laboratories can select CRMs containing certified concentrations appropriate to their analytical requirements.
Why Does Accreditation Matter?
The quality of a CRM depends heavily on how it is produced and characterised.
ISO 17034 specifies requirements for the competence and consistent operation of reference material producers. The standard covers the production of reference materials, including certified reference materials.
NATA explains that ISO 17034 accreditation assures that reference material producers have met internationally defined requirements covering areas such as property-value assignment, stability, homogeneity, labelling and distribution.
For laboratories purchasing CRMs, this provides an important benchmark when evaluating suppliers.
It is also worth distinguishing ISO 17034 from ISO/IEC 17025. ISO 17034 relates specifically to the competence of reference material producers, while ISO/IEC 17025 addresses the competence of testing and calibration laboratories.
What Should Laboratories Look for in a CRM?
Selecting the cheapest reference material is rarely the best approach. Laboratories should consider whether the material is technically suitable for the intended application.
1. Matrix compatibility
The CRM should closely resemble the sample type being analysed. A geological CRM, for example, may be more appropriate for an ore-analysis workflow than a simple aqueous standard.
2. Certified analytes
Check that the material contains certified values for the elements or properties relevant to your method.
3. Measurement uncertainty
Review the uncertainty associated with each certified value and determine whether it is appropriate for your laboratory’s analytical requirements.
4. Traceability
The certificate should provide sufficient information to establish the metrological traceability of the certified values.
5. Homogeneity and stability
A reliable CRM producer must consider whether individual units are sufficiently homogeneous and whether the certified properties remain stable throughout the stated period of use.
6. Documentation
A complete certificate should provide essential information such as certified values, uncertainty, identification, traceability and instructions for appropriate use.
Certified Reference Materials and Laboratory Quality Assurance
CRMs are most effective when integrated into a broader quality-management system rather than treated as occasional check samples.
A laboratory might use them to:
Validate – Verify – Monitor – Document
First, CRMs can support method validation. They can then be used to verify instrument and analytical performance and monitor results over time. Finally, the associated documentation provides evidence for internal reviews, audits, and quality management processes.
This systematic approach turns reference materials into an important source of objective evidence about analytical performance.
Choosing a Certified Reference Material Supplier in Australia
Australian laboratories should look beyond product availability when selecting a CRM supplier.
Consider:
- Manufacturer accreditation and competence
- Product certification documentation
- Matrix and analyte availability
- Measurement uncertainty
- Traceability
- Stability and expiry information
- Technical support
- Australian availability and delivery
Graham B. Jackson provides Australian laboratories with access to a broad range of certified reference material solutions for environmental, mining, geological and analytical applications. By working with established international manufacturers, GBJ helps laboratories source appropriate materials for routine quality control, method validation and analytical assurance.
Why Choose Graham B. Jackson for Certified Reference Material?
At Graham B. Jackson (GBJ), our focus is helping laboratories obtain dependable analytical products from recognised manufacturers.
Our reference material portfolio supports applications across environmental testing, mining, geology, industrial analysis and research.
Whether you need a CRM for trace-metal analysis, geological testing or environmental quality control, the right material can help strengthen confidence in your analytical results.
Conclusion
A laboratory result is only as valuable as the confidence placed in its accuracy. Certified reference material provides an independent benchmark that helps laboratories validate methods, monitor performance and demonstrate traceability.
For environmental and mining laboratories, choosing a matrix-appropriate CRM from a competent producer is particularly important. Accreditation to ISO 17034 provides a recognised framework for assessing the competence of reference material producers, while detailed certificates provide the information laboratories need to use CRMs appropriately.
By selecting the right CRM and incorporating it into a robust quality-control programme, laboratories can strengthen analytical confidence—from sample preparation through to the final reported result.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are certified reference materials used for?
CRMs are used for calibration, method validation, quality control, analytical performance verification and interlaboratory comparisons.
Why is ISO 17034 important for CRMs?
ISO 17034 establishes requirements for the competence and consistent operation of reference material producers. It covers the production of reference materials, including CRMs.
Are CRMs important for mining laboratories?
Yes. CRMs can help mining laboratories verify analytical accuracy and monitor the performance of methods used for ore, concentrate and geological analysis.
How do I select the right certified reference material?
Consider the sample matrix, certified analytes, analytical technique, concentration range, measurement uncertainty, traceability, stability and intended application.
Where can Australian laboratories source certified reference material?
GBJ supplies certified reference material solutions to Australian laboratories across environmental, mining, geological and industrial applications.
For Further Enquiry Contact: sales@gbjpl.com.au