Analytical testing, also called materials testing, is crucial in analytical science. It identifies and examines physical and chemical properties using various analytical testing methods and techniques in a lab environment. Immunoassays, atomic force microscopy, and liquid chromatography or HPLC testing are some of the most common methods available in analytical laboratories.
Various industries, such as consumer products, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverage, benefit from the analytical laboratory services provided by accredited and certified labs. A highly skilled lab analyst performs specialized tests on samples submitted to the laboratory and yields accurate data beneficial to companies to improve their products or further their research.
Chief Functions of an Analytical Laboratory
A material testing lab provides the right laboratory environment and instruments for effective sample testing and analysis. With the data gathered from analytical testing, various industries can make informed decisions that can spearhead scientific breakthroughs and commercial success of their products. Here are a few principal roles analytical laboratories play.
Perform Quality Control
Companies work with analytical laboratories to guarantee that they use the best materials and manufacture high-quality products. Analyzing the properties of raw materials or ingredients is essential in ensuring items such as medicines, snacks, and toys meet quality standards. Running tests also helps identify potential issues detrimental to product quality and public safety.
Ensure Regulatory Compliance
Through microscopy and immunoassays, an analytical laboratory determines whether or not a company’s products contain pathogens, heavy metals, or other harmful contaminants that will cause the company to fail to meet the requirements and guidelines set by the FDA or other government agencies. This step is crucial since the U.S. government enforces strict regulatory standards.
Support Product Development
Learning more about the purity, strength, efficacy, and stability of raw materials and products is possible in a material testing laboratory. Through this, companies can use the data to identify new materials or active ingredients needed to make the products more effective and avoid product defects and failure.
Top Qualities to Look For in a Material Testing Laboratory
Researchers and companies are responsible for choosing the appropriate analytical testing laboratory for their needs. Credibility should always be a top priority when looking for a lab to work with, but the analytical laboratory services offered are just as vital. After all, not all analytical labs perform the same or all testing methods. Here are the top qualities to consider when choosing a lab for materials analysis.
Analytical Testing Expertise
An experienced lab analyst is pivotal in choosing a materials testing laboratory. A laboratory staff with expertise in materials analysis in various industries is preferable. It is imperative to know that some laboratories specialize in specific testing methods and may not offer all analytical testing techniques.
Proper Accreditations and Certifications
Working with a materials testing lab that is accredited and certified ensures that the test results it provides are accurate and reliable. Accredited and certified laboratories meet quality industry standards and have the required expertise and resources to offer dependable and precise testing services.
Complete Laboratory Equipment
Column chromatography and cyclic voltammetry, for instance, require specialized instruments to perform consistent and credible testing. Some of these instruments are the 3-electrode conductivity cell and chromatography column. Analytical labs with a state-of-the-art facility and a wide range of supplies and equipment are ideal over those with limited infrastructure and resources.
Cost and Turnaround Time
Analytical testing can cost a premium price, so opting for laboratories that provide competitive rates without hidden charges is preferable. Besides the costs needed for materials analysis, turnaround time is also critical. Some materials and products for analytical testing may be time-sensitive, and the chosen laboratory must have the capability to provide accurate testing results within the desired timeframe.
Sources:
https://promptpraxislabs.com/what-is-an-analytical-testing-laboratory/
https://www.moravek.com/what-is-an-analytical-and-quality-laboratory/
https://www.tasconusa.com/material-analysis.html
https://www.moravek.com/what-is-the-importance-of-analytical-laboratory-services/
https://www.innovatechlabs.com/newsroom/2260/analytical-labs-product-quality-control/
https://www.qualityassurancemag.com/article/qa0212-testing-laboratory/
https://www.ul.com/services/material-testing-consumer-products
