A batch-specific record
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a document that reports analytical results for a specific batch of a material. Because it is tied to a batch, its details apply to material carrying that batch identifier — which is why batch codes and COAs go together.
What it typically contains
A COA commonly identifies the material and batch, and reports results from analytical methods used to characterise it, such as a purity figure from chromatography and an identity confirmation from mass spectrometry. The exact contents depend on the methods applied to that batch.
How to use it
A COA lets a research purchaser review the characterisation associated with the batch they hold. Where a COA is available it is provided for review; where one is not yet supplied, it should be requested rather than assumed.
Frequently asked questions
Is a COA the same for every batch?
No. A COA is batch-specific, which is why it is read together with the batch identifier.
What if a COA isn’t provided?
It can be requested. Documentation states what is known for a batch rather than a general assumption.