Certificate of Analysis

A COA commonly identifies the material, lot or batch, test date, analytical method, and reported result. Confirm that the document matches the product and lot received.

Identity and purity

Identity testing evaluates whether the expected compound is present. Purity testing estimates the proportion of the principal compound relative to detected impurities under the stated method.

Method and limitations

Results depend on the method, sample preparation, instrument, and reporting limits. A single result should be interpreted within the scope stated on the document.

Traceability

Keep the COA with purchase and lot records. When a document is pending, the product page should state that clearly rather than presenting an unrelated document.