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ASTM Lab Services Insider
Plastics Reference Materials Now Available
We have added several plastics check standards to our reference materials catalog. Our validated and controlled plastics reference materials allow your lab to test properties like melt flow rate, ash content, elemental content, thermogravimetric data, and more. Choose from a selection of product matrices and test methods from ASTM Committee D20 on Plastics to train analysts and expand your testing expertise.
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Data Points - What Does It Mean to Be an Accredited Reference Materials Producer?
Learn about the process behind ASTM Reference Materials receiving ISO 17034 accreditation in the latest issue of Standardization News. This informative article outlines the key differences between accredited and non-accredited reference materials to help you make the right choice for your laboratory.
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ASTM Acquires Insight SQC from Sabine River Partners
ASTM International has announced its acquisition of the Insight SQC platform and its customers. Sabine River Partners (SRP) will continue to support Insight SQC until the platform’s handover is complete and will remain available for additional assistance as needed. Building on this collaboration, ASTM will partner with SRP on the launch of additional platforms designed to further enhance laboratory quality and improve operational efficiency for laboratories worldwide.
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Labs Invited to Participate in New Natural Gas Proficiency Testing Program
There is still time to sign up for the August test cycle of our newest fuels testing program. The Natural Gas PT Program provides a typical mixture of hydrocarbons, principally methane, ethane or a mixture of these materials. Your lab will receive one product-appropriate cylinder (approximately 1,000 cc) of a commercially available compressed natural gas that is used as a domestic, commercial or industrial fuel for each test cycle.
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Octane Testing Program Expanded
Labs can now participate in up to twelve cycles or monthly of our Octane Proficiency Testing Program. You'll receive different commercial samples for each cycle. Use these expanded testing cycle options for consistent technical analysis of your performance and to meet important U.S. EPA regulations. Choose your preferred schedule and register online.
Certified Reference Materials
Choose from a wide selection of test methods, properties, and product matrixes, or build a monthly check standard package with our subscription plans. Petroleum and plastics materials now available.
Contact ahickman@astm.org for order assistance.
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Proficiency Testing Programs
Still Time to Register Your Lab for 2026
Missed the first testing cycle? All PT Programs run throughout the year, so there is still time to register your lab for remaining cycles. Even if you're a current or past participant, you must re-enroll to register and request your samples. Need help with your registration? Contact us for assistance.
Additional Proficiency Testing Programs:
How Do Our PT Samples Meet the Highest Standards?
Our high-quality process includes screening for contaminants, laboratory verification, controlled mixing and in‑process testing, random post‑bottling analysis, plus final data review and approval by our experts.
Learn how we achieve this consistency, from receiving bulk material to final shipment, in this short video.
Create Your Participation Report for Accrediting Bodies
Once your PTP registration is confirmed, you can self-serve a participation letter for 2026. Visit the PTP2 App, select Letters > Participation Letter/Reports. The generated letter will list all programs you have registered for. The report will list all the laboratories within your company and their participation, displaying as one letter per location.
Send Lab Reports to External Recipients
Lab Managers and Coordinators can send lab and program reports and test results directly to external recipients like accreditation bodies without leaving the PTP2 App. Click on Reports and select Email to External User. Select your Program and Cycle and enter the email address. Export your reports in Word, Excel, or PDF using the yellow button.
Questions about PTP2 App features? Contact ptp@astm.org.
Upgrade Your QC Program in 2026
If you're considering SQC to manage your lab's data, ASTM Insight SQC can immediately help your team improve accuracy and work smarter. Our custom software solution offers quality control analytics, control charting, and audit preparation for labs with single or multiple locations.
To see if Insight SQC could help your lab, contact us to request a demo or book an virtual informational meeting with our lab staff.
TIPS & FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
BULK DONATIONS NEEDED FOR PROFICIENCY TESTING
Using bulk materials from sourced producers means the test materials we provide to labs are commercially available, commonly-used products, and helps keep our participation fees low. Current programs in high need include Crude Oil Distillation Vacuum, In-Service Lubricating Grease, Synthetic Aviation Fuel, In-Service Turbine Oil, #6 Fuel Oil, and Biodiesel B100. Learn more about donating here.
Do you have a suggested supplier? Contact ameacock@astm.org.
FAQs
Q. Can I still participate in a PTP if I am only going to test and submit results for a few of the ASTM test methods listed in the scope of the program?
A: Yes, absolutely. Participation in any ASTM Proficiency Testing Program is not contingent upon performing all program tests. However, the participation fee will remain the same no matter how many tests you perform or do not perform.
ASTM Webinars and Meetings
Meet ASTM Staff at Industry Events
LIVE WEBINARS
Using Proficiency Testing to Improve Your Lab - Key Factors to Consider
Attend our fee webinar to learn how to ensure your lab’s PT program is successful from start to finish.
June 9, 2 p.m. ET
Register now
Using the ASTM PTP2 Application
See a demonstration of the latest features, how to access your reports and more.
July 17, 10 a.m. ET
Register now
Training and Certifications for Lab Professionals
New eLearning Programs
Petroleum Inspector
The Petroleum Inspector eLearning Program is now offered in a full-immersion Spanish-language version, expanding access to comprehensive, standards-based training for Spanish-speaking professionals. Includes instruction aligned with ASTM D4057 and related petroleum sampling and inspection practices, delivered through interactive modules, procedural videos, and knowledge checks. This Spanish offering helps organizations support multilingual teams, improve consistency in training, and ensure accurate application of critical inspection and sampling procedures.
Petroleum Inspector eLearning Program
English | Spanish
Motor Gasoline, Cetane, and Octane
These eLearning programs provide lab professionals with flexible, self-paced training on the test methods used to evaluate gasoline and diesel fuel quality. Learners will gain a clear understanding of the ASTM standards used to measure key fuel performance properties such as octane rating and cetane number. Designed to support laboratory competency and consistent test results, these courses help technicians and analysts build confidence in performing critical fuel quality tests.
Motor Gasoline eLearning Program
English | Spanish
Octane eLearning Program
English | Spanish
Cetane eLearning Program
English | Spanish
OnDemand Learning
Enjoy the convenience of 650+ on-demand standards training courses for petroleum and energy, metals, plastics, construction, and much more. View the latest catalog to view courses and register online.
View Catalog
Live Training
Aviation Fuels: Specifications and Testing - Live in Tokyo
Take a deep dive into aviation fuel standards with our Aviation Fuels course now offered live in Tokyo. This training covers key specifications and test methods that define fuel quality and performance across the aviation industry. Participants will gain insight into critical requirements, testing procedures, and how results impact safety and compliance. Register now
Live Training
Expand your standards knowledge with instructor-led, hands-on courses in person. Courses are held throughout the year in locations across the globe. View our latest catalog to view courses and register online.
View Catalog
Helping our world work better
Committed to serving global societal needs, ASTM International positively impacts public health and safety, consumer confidence, and overall quality of life. We integrate consensus standards — developed with our international membership of volunteer technical experts — and innovative services to improve lives.
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