Referencemateriale

Referencemateriale, often shortened to RM, is a substance or material with one or more properties which are sufficiently homogeneous and well-established to be used for the calibration of an apparatus, the assessment of a measurement method, or for assigning values to materials. The concept of referencemateriale is fundamental in metrology and analytical chemistry, ensuring consistency and comparability of measurements across different laboratories and over time.

There are several types of referencemateriale, including certified referencemateriale (CRM) and referencemateriale (RM). A CRM is a referencemateriale accompanied by a certificate, detailing the property values, their associated uncertainties, and a statement of metrological traceability. This certification process involves rigorous testing and validation by accredited bodies. An RM, while still homogeneous and stable, may not have undergone the same level of characterization or certification as a CRM.

Referencemateriale are essential for quality control and quality assurance in various fields such as environmental monitoring, food safety, clinical diagnostics, and industrial manufacturing. They are used to calibrate instruments, validate analytical methods, and ensure the accuracy of test results. The proper use and selection of referencemateriale are critical for producing reliable and trustworthy data. International organizations like ISO and national metrology institutes play a significant role in the production and standardization of referencemateriale.