Reference Materials – FAQ’s

Reference Materials: Frequently asked Questions and Answers

Reference materials play a crucial role in laboratories and industry. Soon, LVA reference materials of the highest quality will be available for purchase. With this offering, we are expanding our portfolio and making an important contribution to food safety in Austria.

In our FAQ's section, we answer frequently asked questions about various aspects of reference materials – from their definition and significance to certification, quality standards, proper handling, and storage. If you have any further questions that are not answered here, we would be happy to hear from you!

What are reference materials?

Reference materials are standardized substances or samples used to:

  • calibrate measurement methods,
  • verify results, or
  • ensure the quality of analyses.

They serve as a benchmark in laboratories, ensuring that measurements are precise and reproducible. Reference materials are characterized by well-defined and known properties, such as chemical composition or physical parameters. They play a crucial role in quality control and are essential for validating analytical methods to guarantee reliable and traceable results across various industries, particularly in the pharmaceutical, chemical, and food sectors.

Do reference materials need to meet certain standards?

Yes, reference materials must meet strict standards to ensure their suitability and reliability. They are produced and certified according to internationally recognized norms, such as those set by ISO (International Organization for Standardization). These standards ensure that the properties of reference materials—such as purity, composition, or concentration—are precisely defined and documented. Additionally, they must exhibit high stability and homogeneity to guarantee consistent results across different measurements and over extended periods. By adhering to these standards, reference materials significantly contribute to the accuracy and reproducibility of laboratory analyses.

LVA reference materials are produced in accordance with ISO 17034.

What is the difference between reference material (RM) and certified reference material (CRM)

The difference between reference materials (RM) and certified reference materials (CRM) lies in their quality and the level of verification. Reference materials (RM) are substances or samples with known properties that are used for calibrations, quality controls, and validations. They provide a foundation for reliable measurement results, but without formal certification.

Certified reference materials (CRM), on the other hand, undergo rigorous testing and are certified according to international standards, such as ISO 17034. CRMs come with detailed documentation and a certificate specifying the exact values and uncertainties. This provides even higher accuracy and traceability compared to standard reference materials.

At LVA, you can obtain both reference materials and certified reference materials.

What is the difference between single standards and mixed solutions?

The difference between single standards and mixed solutions lies in their composition and application. Single standards are solutions that contain only a defined amount of a single substance. They are commonly used to precisely calibrate or analyze specific substances, offering high accuracy in the analysis of individual components.

In contrast, mixed solutions contain multiple substances at precisely defined concentrations. They are used to analyze multiple components simultaneously or to perform calibrations for more complex samples. Mixed solutions save time and effort by allowing the determination of multiple substances at once, making them particularly suitable for specific applications where the interaction of components is relevant.

At LVA, both single standards and mixed solutions are available for purchase.

What are accredited reference materials?

Accredited reference materials are specially tested and certified substances that are produced and monitored according to international standards. They meet strict quality requirements and are manufactured by accredited laboratories in compliance with ISO 17034. These reference materials offer the highest precision and reliability in analytical processes, as they have been tested and validated by official bodies.

Accredited reference materials are primarily used in fields such as pharmaceutical, chemical, and environmental analysis. They ensure that calibrations, testing, and quality controls are performed at the highest level and with the greatest accuracy.

What does metrological traceability mean?

Metrological traceability means that measurement results can be linked to national or international standards through an unbroken chain of comparison measurements with known uncertainties. This traceability ensures that measurements are consistent and comparable, regardless of where or when they are performed.

A key aspect of metrological traceability is the use of certified reference materials and calibrated measuring instruments, which are regularly verified and aligned with recognized standards. This is crucial for the accuracy and reliability of measurement results, especially in fields such as laboratory analysis, manufacturing, and quality control.

In Austria, the Federal Office of Metrology and Surveying (BEV) is the responsible authority for metrological traceability, including in the food industry.

How should reference materials be stored?

Proper storage of reference materials is crucial for their stability and accuracy. Here are some basic recommendations:

  • Temperature control: Store materials according to the manufacturer's instructions – often refrigerated (+2 to +8 °C) or frozen (-20 °C or lower) conditions are required. Room temperature may suffice for certain materials.
  • Light protection: Many reference materials are sensitive to light. Store them in opaque containers or in a dark storage room.
  • Moisture control: Keep hygroscopic materials in dry environments or with desiccants to prevent quality loss.
  • Airtight containers: Use the original packaging or airtight containers to prevent contamination or oxidation.
  • Minimizing temperature fluctuations: Only take the required amount from storage. Especially with refrigerated or frozen reference materials, it is important not to expose the container to unnecessary temperature changes and to work quickly when removing the material.
  • Labeling & documentation: Record storage conditions, opening dates, and expiration dates to ensure traceability.

By following these measures, the quality of your reference materials will be preserved.

Any questions? We are happy to help.

Dr. David Steiner

Dr. David Steiner

Leitung Produktentwicklung