Testmiddel

Testmiddel is a Dutch term referring to any substance, device, or material used to test or validate a process, measurement, or hypothesis. In a broad sense, a testmiddel acts as a controlled input, reference, or stimulus that helps determine whether a system behaves as expected. The word combines test with middel, meaning means or instrument.

Common purposes include calibration, verification of analytical methods, quality control, and demonstration of performance under predefined conditions. Testmiddelen help establish accuracy, precision, and reliability, and they aid in identifying drifts, errors, or limitations in procedures and equipment.

Types of testmiddelen include chemical test reagents that produce a detectable signal when a target is present; calibration standards and reference materials with known properties; control samples used to verify ongoing accuracy; and testkits or simulants used in diagnostics or environmental testing. The choice of testmiddel depends on the specific method, the target measurement, and the required level of traceability.

In practice, testmiddelen are selected for well-defined properties, documented storage conditions, and traceability to standards. Their use is governed by safety guidelines and regulatory frameworks, and results are recorded to ensure reproducibility and accountability across laboratories and industries.

The term is predominantly used in Dutch-speaking contexts and is common in technical fields such as chemistry, medicine, and quality assurance. References to testmiddelen often appear in laboratory protocols, standard operating procedures, and method validation reports.