Accurate chemical and spectroscopic analysis forms the bedrock of quality control, research, and development across a vast spectrum of industries. From ensuring the structural integrity of steel in construction to verifying the purity of materials in electronics, the reliability of analytical results is paramount. At the heart of this reliability lies the use of reference materials – substances with well-defined properties that serve as benchmarks for measurement. Among the key providers of these essential tools stands the Bureau of Analysed Samples Ltd. (BAS), an organization with a rich history and a strong commitment to analytical excellence. This report aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of BAS reference materials, exploring their significance in analytical chemistry and their diverse applications across various sectors.

Demystifying Certified Reference Materials (CRMs): Defining Their Role and Importance in Analytical Chemistry

Certified reference materials (CRMs) are specialized standards or ‘controls’ meticulously designed to verify the quality and metrological traceability of products. They play a crucial role in validating analytical measurement methods and ensuring the accurate calibration of instruments. These materials represent a specific category of measurement standards, distinguished by their rigorous characterization and the assurance of their property values. According to the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), a certified reference material is defined as a material or substance possessing one or more property values that are sufficiently homogeneous and well established. Critically, it is accompanied by a certificate that attests to the fact that these property values have been certified through a procedure that establishes their traceability to an accurate realization of the unit in which the property values are expressed, with each certified value accompanied by a stated level of uncertainty.³ In the United States, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) employs the term Standard Reference Material (SRM) as a trademark for certified reference materials that satisfy additional, NIST-specific criteria. This terminology distinction highlights potential national variations in the specific requirements for CRM certification, although the fundamental principles remain consistent globally.

The significance of CRMs in analytical chemistry cannot be overstated. In analytical testing, these materials are fundamental for calibration, enabling the quantification of analytes, and providing a means for verification of measurement accuracy. Given that the majority of analytical instrumentation operates on a comparative basis, relying on the measurement of an unknown sample against a known standard, the necessity of a reference material with a well-defined composition becomes evident for achieving accurate calibration. Beyond calibration, CRMs are indispensable for the assessment of measurement methods, providing a benchmark against which the performance of a new or existing method can be evaluated. They are also essential for establishing the traceability of measurement results to the International System of Units (SI) or another recognized point of reference, thereby ensuring the international comparability and acceptance of analytical data. Furthermore, CRMs play a vital role in determining and reporting the uncertainty associated with measurement results, a critical aspect of demonstrating the reliability of analytical data. Their application extends to quality control and quality assurance (QC&QA) within laboratories, serving as control materials in routine analyses and assisting in the validation of analytical methods to ensure consistent and dependable performance.The proper and consistent use of CRMs provides the most direct evidence regarding the quality and the level of confidence that can be placed in the analytical results obtained. Ultimately, CRMs help ensure the accuracy, traceability, and comparability of measurement results across a diverse range of scientific, industrial, and technological fields.

Several key features distinguish certified reference materials and underscore their reliability. They are characterized by high accuracy, ensuring that the assigned property values are as close to the true value as possible. Traceability to the SI is another hallmark, meaning that the certified values can be linked through an unbroken chain of comparisons to the fundamental units of measurement, providing a high degree of confidence in their accuracy. Formal certification by a recognized authority is a defining characteristic, indicating that the material has undergone rigorous testing and evaluation. CRMs are also designed to be sufficiently homogeneous and stable with respect to one or more specified properties.² Homogeneity ensures that any representative portion of the material will have the same certified property value within specified limits, while stability guarantees that the property value remains consistent over time under defined storage conditions. Each CRM is accompanied by a certificate of analysis, a crucial document that details the certified value(s) of the property(ies) for which the material is certified, the associated measurement uncertainty, and a statement of metrological traceability, providing users with all the necessary information for its proper application. The production of CRMs involves stringent and well-documented manufacturing procedures, encompassing every step from the initial collection or synthesis of the material to the final homogeneity testing, stability assessment, and value assignment. These rigorous processes are essential to ensure the quality and reliability that users expect from certified reference materials.

A Legacy of Quality: The Story of Bureau of Analysed Samples Ltd. (BAS)

The Bureau of Analysed Samples Ltd. (BAS) holds a distinguished position in the field of analytical standards, with its origins tracing back to 1935 in the United Kingdom.The company was established to carry forward the important work of the British Chemical Standards (BCS) Movement , an informal association of chemists primarily working within the iron and steel industry that began in 1916. This early initiative recognized the critical need for standardized analytical materials to support the burgeoning iron and steel production in the UK. The very first British Certified Reference Materials were produced over eighty years ago, with invaluable initial support and collaboration from the National Bureau of Standards (NBS), which is now known as NIST, in the United States.This early transatlantic partnership underscores BAS’s long-standing commitment to adhering to international standards and best practices in the development and production of reference materials. Following the passing of Charles Ridsdale in 1934, a pivotal figure in the BCS Movement, the decision was made to formally incorporate the Bureau of Analysed Samples Ltd. as a private limited company in 1935. This strategic move ensured the independent continuation of the crucial work of producing and supplying standard samples specifically tailored to the needs of the UK iron and steel industry.

Over the ensuing decades, BAS has cultivated a robust international reputation for its dedication to producing high-quality Certified Reference Materials suitable for both chemical and spectroscopic analysis.Demonstrating its commitment to European standardization, BAS has actively engaged in close collaborations with leading European organizations, notably VDEH/BAM in Germany and IRSID/CTIF in France. These partnerships have been instrumental in the development of EURONORM-CRMs, a suite of certified reference materials specifically designed to meet the analytical requirements of the iron and steel industry across Europe.his collaborative European Producers Group now operates under the guidance of the European Committee for Iron and Steel Standardization (ECISS), further solidifying the role of BAS in international standardization efforts, with the Nordic CRM Working Group also joining this collaborative framework. In a significant development in 2025, Goodfellow, a well-established specialist supplier of metals and materials, acquired BAS.This acquisition reflects the recognition of BAS’s decades of leadership and expertise in the realm of Certified Reference Materials, particularly its adherence to ISO standards (ISO:17034 and ISO/IEC:17025). This strategic move positions BAS as an even more critical partner for both research and industry, significantly enhancing Goodfellow’s overall materials testing capabilities by adding BAS’s specialized offerings to their existing portfolio. Furthermore, BAS holds accreditation as a Reference Material Producer under the internationally recognized standard ISO 17034 and is also certified to BS EN ISO 9001:2015. These certifications serve as a testament to BAS’s unwavering commitment to maintaining rigorous quality management systems and consistently adhering to the highest international standards in the production and supply of its comprehensive range of reference materials.

BAS Reference Materials in Action: Industry Applications

The Bureau of Analysed Samples Ltd. (BAS) has a long and storied history of serving the iron and steel industry, having provided certified reference materials to this crucial sector for over eight decades.In this industry, CRMs are indispensable for verifying the quality and metrological traceability of iron and steel products. They are routinely used for the calibration of analytical instruments, such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and spark optical emission spectrometry (Spark-OES), which are standard tools for the compositional analysis of steel alloys.BAS offers an extensive array of CRMs in both chip and powder forms, ideally suited for the chemical analysis of various materials, including plain carbon and alloy steels, cast irons, and ferro-alloys.Additionally, BAS provides solid (disc or block) samples that are specifically designed for spectroscopic analysis of a diverse range of steel types.Notable examples of steel CRMs offered by BAS include BCS-CRM No. 113, a certified reference material for low alloy steel , BCS-CRM No. 114, another low alloy steel CRM , and SS-CRM 601/3, a spectroscopic certified reference material for plain carbon cast steel. The fundamental requirement for precise material analysis in the iron and steel industry has been a primary catalyst for the development and widespread adoption of CRMs, and BAS has consistently played a pivotal role in supplying these essential materials, ensuring the quality and safety of steel products across various applications.

BAS also caters to the analytical needs of the non-ferrous alloys industry, providing a selection of CRMs for materials such as aluminum bronze and other non-ferrous compositions.Certified reference materials are of paramount importance in this sector for guaranteeing the accuracy and reliability of compositional analysis in non-ferrous alloys, which are critical components in industries spanning aerospace, automotive manufacturing, and electronics.These CRMs are utilized for the precise calibration of analytical instruments like XRF and optical emission spectrometers, as well as for the rigorous validation of analytical methods employed in both the production and stringent quality control processes of non-ferrous alloys.The diverse range of metals encompassed by the non-ferrous alloys industry, coupled with the demanding performance requirements of their applications, underscores the essential role of CRMs from providers like BAS in maintaining high quality standards and ensuring the optimal performance of critical components.

For the ores analysis sector, which is fundamental to the mining and exploration industries, BAS offers certified reference materials that are specifically designed for this purpose.In the mining industry, CRMs serve as indispensable control samples, meticulously used to validate the accuracy and precision of laboratory assays. These assays, in turn, provide the crucial data that informs critical decisions regarding mineral exploration, the economic viability of mining operations, and the overall valuation of commodities.Typically provided in powder form, these ore CRMs possess a well-defined grade composition. They are strategically introduced into batches of field samples with unknown compositions, acting as an internal benchmark to continuously monitor the performance and reliability of analytical measurements throughout the assay process.The accurate analysis of ores is the cornerstone of the mining industry, and the availability of high-quality CRMs from BAS and other reputable suppliers ensures that analytical laboratories can generate dependable data for informed resource evaluation and robust quality control measures across all stages of mining operations.

BAS also provides certified reference materials tailored for slags analysis, a process particularly relevant to the steel manufacturing industry.The precise analysis of slag composition is of critical importance in steelmaking for effective process control, the optimization of raw material utilization, and ultimately, ensuring the desired quality of the final steel product.Analytical techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) are commonly employed for the analysis of slag, and in this context, CRMs play a vital role in the accurate calibration of these instruments, thereby guaranteeing the reliability of the analytical results obtained.A specific example of a slag CRM is SL-1, a certified reference material specifically prepared from blast furnace slag for use by analytical laboratories associated with the iron and steel industry.⁴³ Slag analysis is an integral part of maintaining efficiency and quality in steel production, and the provision of suitable CRMs by BAS ensures that these analyses are conducted with the necessary accuracy, contributing to improved process control and enhanced product quality within the steel sector.

Furthermore, BAS extends its range of certified reference materials to cater to the ceramics analysis sector, which encompasses a diverse array of materials with numerous applications. In the ceramics industry, CRMs are essential for the detailed chemical characterization of both raw materials and finished ceramic products. Common analytical techniques employed in this field that rely on CRMs for calibration and validation include wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (WD-XRF) and inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES).⁴⁵ With the increasing demand for high-performance ceramics in various technological domains, the use of reliable reference materials has become increasingly important for ensuring stringent quality control and adherence to precise product specifications.BAS contributes to this need by providing CRMs that facilitate accurate calibration and method validation, ultimately ensuring the consistent quality and performance of ceramic materials utilized in a wide range of applications.

Choosing the Right Tool: Types of BAS Reference Materials

BAS offers its comprehensive range of Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) in two primary physical forms to suit different analytical techniques: chip and powder samples, and solid (disc or block) samples.

Chip and Powder Samples: BAS provides CRMs in the form of finely divided chips or powders that are ideally suited for a variety of chemical analysis techniques.These forms encompass a broad spectrum of materials, including plain carbon and alloy steels, cast irons, ferro-alloys, non-ferrous alloys, ores, slags, and even ceramic materials.The finely divided nature of chip and powder samples makes them particularly well-suited for sample preparation methods that involve dissolving or digesting the material prior to analysis. This is essential for techniques such as Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) spectroscopy, Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS), and traditional wet chemistry methods, where the analyte needs to be in solution for accurate measurement. For instance, BCS-CRM No. 113, a low alloy steel CRM offered by BAS, is supplied in chip form specifically for chemical analysis.The availability of CRMs in these forms from BAS directly addresses the fundamental requirements of analytical laboratories that rely on classical and modern wet chemistry techniques to determine the precise elemental composition of a diverse array of industrial materials.

Solid (Disc or Block) Samples: BAS also manufactures CRMs in solid form, typically as discs or blocks , which are specifically designed for spectroscopic analysis.These solid CRMs, often designated as SS-CRMs (Spectroscopic Standard CRMs), cover a wide range of metallic materials, including most plain carbon, low alloy, and highly alloyed steels, cast irons, and certain non-ferrous alloys.The solid form factor is crucial for direct surface analysis techniques like optical emission spectrometry (OES) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry. These techniques analyze the sample directly in its solid state, without requiring any prior dissolution or chemical preparation beyond surface cleaning. A prime example is SCRM No. 668/13, a spectroscopic certified reference material from BAS that is supplied as a ductile iron block, specifically intended for optical emission spectrometric analysis.The provision of solid CRMs by BAS is of paramount importance for laboratories that utilize rapid and often non-destructive spectroscopic techniques for routine quality control, material identification, and compositional verification, particularly within the metalworking and related industries.

Matching the Technique: BAS CRMs for OES and XRF Analysis

BAS offers a comprehensive suite of Spectroscopic Certified Reference Materials (SS-CRMs) in solid form, ideally suited for Optical Emission Spectrometry (OES).These SS-CRMs, typically provided as discs or blocks, are specifically designed and meticulously certified for use with optical emission spectrometers. They serve as essential standards for calibrating and subsequently verifying the performance of OES instruments, which are widely used to accurately determine the elemental composition of various materials. The range of SS-CRMs from BAS covers a diverse array of steel types, including plain carbon steels, low alloy steels, and highly alloyed steels, as well as various cast irons and certain non-ferrous alloys. This extensive coverage ensures that laboratories employing OES can find appropriate standards for a wide spectrum of metallic samples and achieve reliable quantitative analysis across different compositional ranges. Specific examples of BAS SS-CRMs suitable for OES include SS-CRM 601/3, certified for plain carbon cast steel , SCRM No. 668/13, designed for ductile (nodular) iron analysis , and BCS-CRM 114, a certified reference material for low alloy steel analysis. Additionally, the CURM series, such as CURM 51.11-4 for aluminum bronze, is also intended for calibration in both OES and XRF analysis , and NCRM No. 5, certified for nickel chromium cast iron, is suitable for OES applications.Furthermore, ECRM 058-2, a certified reference material for low sulfur low calcium steel, is available in disc form specifically for optical emission spectrometry.

Similarly, BAS provides solid CRMs (SS-CRMs) that are well-suited for use in X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry.XRF is another powerful spectroscopic technique used for elemental analysis, and BAS offers a range of solid standards to facilitate the accurate calibration and quality control of measurements obtained using XRF instruments. These CRMs enable laboratories to perform reliable elemental analysis on a variety of solid samples. Examples of BAS SS-CRMs applicable to XRF include SS-CRM 601/3, certified for plain carbon cast steel , and NCRM No. 5, designed for the analysis of nickel chromium cast iron.The CURM series, including CURM 51.11-4 for aluminum bronze, is also intended for calibration purposes in XRF analysis.While BAS’s primary focus lies in providing metallic CRMs, it is important to note that other specialized providers exist that offer certified reference materials for XRF analysis of different matrices, such as ores and slags. For instance, Malvern Panalytical offers its WROXI series of CRMs, which are synthetic standards specifically designed for XRF calibration in a broad range of oxide materials, including ores and slags.

Certified vs. Non-Certified: Navigating BAS Reference Material Options

BAS offers a comprehensive portfolio of reference materials, which can be broadly categorized into Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) and non-certified Reference Materials (RMs), each serving distinct purposes in analytical laboratories.¹³

Certified Reference Materials (CRMs): BAS provides a wide array of CRMs across its product lines, including the established British Chemical Standards (BCS-CRMs), the European collaborative EURONORM-CRMs, and the Spectroscopic Standard CRMs (SS-CRMs).These CRMs are distinguished by the fact that they are accompanied by a detailed certificate of analysis. This certificate provides the certified values for the elemental composition of the material, along with a crucial estimation of the uncertainty associated with these values and a clear statement confirming the metrological traceability of the measurements back to the fundamental units of the SI.The production of CRMs at BAS adheres to stringent laboratory conditions and often involves comprehensive certification analysis conducted through collaborative inter-laboratory studies. This rigorous approach ensures the high accuracy and reliability of the certified values provided, giving users a high degree of confidence in the standard.BAS CRMs represent the pinnacle of accuracy and reliability within their product range, making them ideally suited for critical analytical applications. These include the precise calibration of analytical instruments used for high-precision measurements, the rigorous validation of analytical methods to ensure their accuracy and dependability, and the establishment of metrological traceability for analytical results, which is often a mandatory requirement for regulatory compliance and international data comparability.

Reference Materials (RMs): In addition to its extensive range of CRMs, BAS also offers a selection of non-certified Reference Materials (RMs).These include series like the CURM (Calibration Reference Materials), such as CURM 51.11-4, which is certified for aluminum bronze composition.While these RMs have well-established property values that are determined through analysis by at least two independent laboratories, they do not undergo the same level of rigorous certification as CRMs and therefore do not possess full certification status. BAS also provides Spectroscopic Setting-up Samples (SUS).These samples come with an analysis report rather than a formal certificate and are primarily intended for the daily setting-up and standardization of direct reading spectrometers that are commonly used in production control environments. BAS RMs and SUS offer more cost-effective alternatives to CRMs for specific applications where the absolute highest level of certified accuracy is not strictly necessary. These applications might include routine instrument performance checks, establishing basic response curves for analytical instruments, or conducting production control analyses where a high degree of relative accuracy is sufficient. While RMs and SUS provide valuable reference data for these purposes, it is important to note that they typically lack the comprehensive metrological traceability and detailed uncertainty characterization that are the hallmarks of certified reference materials. Therefore, when the highest level of accuracy and traceability is required, particularly for critical measurements, instrument calibration for regulatory purposes, or method validation, CRMs remain the preferred choice.

The BAS Advantage: More Than Just Materials

Choosing BAS as a provider of reference materials offers several distinct advantages that extend beyond the quality of their products themselves.

Handling of EU Importations: For laboratories and other organizations located within the European Union, BAS provides a significant logistical benefit by managing all aspects of the importation process and customs clearance for materials shipped from the UK.Following the UK’s departure from the EU, navigating the complexities of international shipping and customs procedures can be a time-consuming and potentially challenging process. By handling these intricacies on behalf of their EU-based customers, BAS streamlines the acquisition of their reference materials, effectively eliminating potential hurdles and delays associated with cross-border trade. This service is particularly valuable for EU customers who require timely access to reference materials for critical analytical work or regulatory compliance.

Customer and Scientific Support: BAS is committed to providing exceptional, personalized customer and scientific support to all its users.This dedication extends to offering expert guidance in selecting the most appropriate reference materials for specific analytical applications, ensuring that customers choose the right tool for their particular needs. Furthermore, BAS provides comprehensive technical information and expert advice to assist users in the correct and effective application of their reference materials. Should any queries or issues arise, customers can rely on the responsive and knowledgeable support team at BAS for prompt and effective resolution. In addition to this direct support, BAS also makes available downloadable certificates of analysis for its entire range of products directly from its website (www.basrid.co.uk).This readily accessible documentation provides users with all the essential information regarding the certified values, associated uncertainties, and metrological traceability of their reference materials, ensuring complete transparency and facilitating the proper interpretation and use of the data. This commitment to both logistical ease and comprehensive support underscores the value proposition of choosing BAS as a trusted partner for reference material needs.

Real-World Impact: Case Studies Featuring BAS Reference Materials

The certified reference materials produced by the Bureau of Analysed Samples Ltd. (BAS) have been instrumental in numerous analytical studies and quality control applications across various scientific and industrial fields.

Chemical Analysis: In the realm of chemical analysis, BAS CRMs have played a pivotal role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of results. For instance, BCS CRM 313/1, a certified reference material from BAS, was utilized in a research study focused on the precise determination of trace element concentrations in quartz samples.This study employed advanced analytical techniques such as laser ablation inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), solution ICP-MS, and instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA), highlighting the suitability of BAS CRMs for demanding research applications requiring highly accurate trace element quantification. Furthermore, the Certificates of Analysis issued by BAS for its CRMs frequently document their use in interlaboratory studies. These studies involve multiple independent laboratories analyzing the same material using a variety of analytical methods, with the results being statistically evaluated to establish consensus certified values.This widespread use in certification processes underscores the recognized reliability and high quality of BAS reference materials within the analytical community.

Spectroscopic Analysis: BAS reference materials are also extensively used in spectroscopic analysis to ensure the accuracy and dependability of techniques like optical emission spectrometry (OES) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The CURM series of reference materials from BAS, for example, is specifically designed for the purpose of establishing and verifying the calibration of both optical emission and X-ray spectrometers, which are commonly used for the rapid compositional analysis of various materials.This direct application in instrument calibration highlights the critical role of BAS reference materials in ensuring the accuracy of routine spectroscopic measurements in industrial settings. Additionally, BCS CRM 469, a certified reference material from BAS, has been documented in its Certificate of Analysis as being used for both the verification of analytical methods and the calibration of analytical instruments in spectroscopic analysis.⁵⁵ This illustrates the practical application of BAS CRMs in everyday laboratory quality control procedures for spectroscopic measurements. In a more specialized application, several copper alloy reference materials provided by BAS, including BAS 50.01-2, BAS 50.03-4, and BAS 50.04-4, were utilized in a study focused on the metallurgical and chemical characterization of such materials.This research aimed to develop a minimally-invasive analytical method using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS) for the analysis of ancient copper alloy artifacts. This case study demonstrates the utility of BAS reference materials not only in routine analysis but also in the development and validation of specialized analytical techniques for unique applications, such as the analysis of historical artifacts.

Conclusion: Ensuring Accuracy and Traceability with BAS Reference Materials

In conclusion, certified reference materials stand as indispensable tools for achieving accuracy and reliability in analytical measurements across a wide range of industries. The Bureau of Analysed Samples Ltd. (BAS) has established itself as a long-standing and highly reputable provider of these essential standards for both chemical and spectroscopic analysis. With a rich history dating back to the British Chemical Standards Movement, BAS has consistently demonstrated a commitment to quality and precision. Their diverse range of reference materials, available in chip, powder, and solid forms, caters to a multitude of analytical techniques, including wet chemistry, optical emission spectrometry (OES), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Choosing BAS offers distinct advantages, notably their expertise in handling EU importations, simplifying logistics for European customers, and their dedication to providing excellent customer and scientific support. The real-world impact of BAS reference materials is evident in their widespread use in analytical studies, interlaboratory certifications, and routine quality control procedures, ensuring accuracy, traceability, and overall reliability in analytical measurements. By providing these crucial standards, BAS plays a vital role in supporting quality control, regulatory compliance, and advancements across various scientific and industrial sectors.

Table: Types of BAS Reference Materials and Their Applications