How to Read a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for Research Compounds
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is one of the most important documents in laboratory research. It verifies the identity, purity, and quality of research compounds through independent third-party testing. For any serious research operation, understanding how to interpret a COA is essential for accuracy, safety, and compliance.
This guide explains what a COA is, what information it contains, and how to properly analyze it before using any research compound.
Research-Only Disclaimer: All compounds referenced are intended strictly for laboratory and research applications only. They are not approved for human or veterinary use.
What Is a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
A Certificate of Analysis is an official laboratory document that confirms the results of analytical testing performed on a research compound batch. It verifies:
- Compound identity
- Purity percentage
- Testing methodology
- Lot or batch number
- Laboratory verification signature
A legitimate research supplier provides a COA for every available batch.
Why a COA Matters in Research
A COA is critical because it ensures:
- Accurate experimental results
- Protection against contamination
- Legally compliant sourcing
- Scientific data integrity
- Consistent batch-to-batch quality
Without a verifiable COA, purity claims cannot be trusted.
Key Sections Found on a COA
1. Compound Name & Batch Number
Confirms the exact substance and identifies the production lot for traceability.
2. Molecular Formula & Molecular Weight
Used to verify compound identity through mass spectrometry.
3. Purity Percentage
Typically displayed as:
- ≥98%
- ≥99%
- ≥99.5%
Higher purity ensures fewer contamination variables in research environments.
Understanding HPLC Results on a COA
Understanding HPLC Testing on a COA
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is a globally accepted analytical technique used for purity verification in scientific research. It separates compounds based on molecular interactions and allows laboratories to accurately determine compound concentration and impurity levels.
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) measures compound purity by separating analyte components. A valid COA will show:
- Retention time
- Peak concentration
- Area under curve
- Purity percentage
A single sharp peak with minimal background noise indicates high purity.
How Mass Spectrometry Confirms Compound Identity
Mass Spectrometry (MS) verifies molecular weight with extreme precision. The mass match confirms:
- Exact peptide structure
- Absence of substituted compounds
- Presence of proper amino acid sequencing
This prevents incorrect compound identification.
Common Red Flags on COAs
Avoid suppliers if you see:
- No third-party lab listed
- Missing batch numbers
- No test date
- No purity percentage
- No lab signature
- Blurry or editable PDF files
These indicate unverified or potentially fabricated documentation.
Digital vs Physical COAs
Most reputable suppliers provide:
- Downloadable PDF COAs
- Batch-specific verification
- Online searchable lot numbers
Always confirm that the COA directly matches your purchased batch.
Legal & Research-Only Compliance
COAs ensure that compounds are distributed as:
- Analytical standards
- In-vitro research materials
- Laboratory reference compounds
They are not approved for medical use and must follow research-only labeling requirements.
Final Thoughts on COA Verification
A Certificate of Analysis is the research community’s most important trust document. It protects experimental integrity, confirms purity, and ensures supplier accountability. Any research operation that values data accuracy should verify every COA before compound use.
For additional guidance on research compounds and purity standards, see our full educational guide on research peptides and laboratory safety protocols.
For a full educational overview of purity standards and laboratory safety, see our complete guide on research peptides.