Certificate of Analysis

testing

A document provided by resin manufacturers that certifies a specific lot of plastic material meets stated specifications, including test results for key properties and quality parameters.

In Simple Terms

Think of a Certificate of Analysis as a report card for each batch of plastic resin. It shows the actual test results for properties like melt flow rate, density, and strength, proving the material meets the promised specifications before you use it in production.

Why It Matters

COAs are critical for quality control and traceability in plastic manufacturing. They help processors verify incoming materials meet specifications, troubleshoot processing issues, and provide documentation for regulatory compliance and customer audits.

Technical Details

A typical COA includes lot identification, production date, test results for key properties (MFI, density, tensile strength), analytical methods used (ASTM standards), specification limits, and actual measured values. COAs are generated using validated test methods and signed by quality control personnel to ensure data integrity and traceability throughout the supply chain.

Real-World Examples

HDPE blow molding grade purchase

COA shows melt index of 0.35 g/10min (spec: 0.30-0.40), density of 0.954 g/cm³, and confirms the resin meets FDA food contact requirements for bottle production.

Polypropylene injection molding troubleshooting

Processing issues prompt review of COA, revealing the lot has higher than normal melt flow rate, explaining the shorter cycle times and changed part dimensions.

Automotive grade ABS verification

COA documents impact strength at -40°C and UV stability test results, ensuring the material meets automotive specifications before molding exterior components.