How We Test
A plain-language explanation of the analytical methods used to characterise research compounds, and how to read the documentation issued for each batch. This page is educational and does not describe any human or clinical use.
From Sample to Certificate
- 01
Sampling
A representative sample is taken from the production or supply batch under controlled conditions.
- 02
Analysis
The sample is assessed by the analytical methods relevant to the compound, typically HPLC and, where applicable, mass spectrometry.
- 03
Review
Results are checked against the reference specification for that compound before the batch is released.
- 04
Documentation
Findings are compiled into batch-specific documentation, indexed to the batch or lot number on the label.
What Each Test Tells You
HPLC Purity Analysis
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography
What it does
Separates a sample into its individual components so the proportion of the target compound can be measured against everything else present.
How to read it
A chromatogram where the area of the main peak, relative to total peak area, indicates the stated purity percentage.
Mass Spectrometry
LC-MS / MS
What it does
Measures the mass-to-charge ratio of molecules in a sample to support confirmation that the material matches the expected molecular identity.
How to read it
An observed mass consistent with the compound's theoretical molecular weight supports identity confirmation.
Appearance & Identity Checks
Visual & physical
What it does
Confirms physical characteristics such as colour, form and solubility behaviour against the expected specification for each batch.
How to read it
Observed appearance is compared against the reference description recorded for the compound.
Endotoxin Screening
Where applicable
What it does
Screens for bacterial endotoxins on compound classes where this is a relevant quality attribute.
How to read it
Results are reported against the applicable threshold for the material class, where testing is performed.
Reading a Certificate of Analysis
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) links a specific batch to its test results. It typically records the batch number, the date tested, the stated purity and the methods used. Match the batch number on your product label to the batch number on the certificate to confirm you are looking at documentation for the exact material you received.
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY — NOT FOR HUMAN OR VETERINARY USEProducts supplied by CRC Research are intended exclusively for laboratory and research purposes.
