How to Prepare Samples for Natural vs Synthetic Testing

To prepare your samples for Natural vs Synthetic testing via carbon-14 analysis (ASTM
D6866 or ISO 16620), please follow our guidelines below.

Sample Size

0.1 to 1 oz (2.8 to 25 grams) for solids

1 cc for essential oils, extracts, and high petrochemical content liquids
10 cc for all other liquids

Container

For solid samples, use Ziploc bags.

For liquid samples, use a 1 mL glass micro-sample vial with a crimp top that has a
Teflon-lined septum. Make sure the vial is only ¼ – ½ full.

Reminders:

Make sure the vials have chemically non-reactive seals.

Do not use vials that have caps lined with a piece of cardboard with an Aluminum-foil
face on one side. The cardboard side is glued to the cap. These are not suitable for
volatile liquids as the vapors can dissolve the glue and contaminate the sample
during shipment.
Use small boxes instead of envelopes to protect the samples during shipment.
Print sample ID (instead of handwriting) and attach to the container.

Questions on sample preparation?

Contact Us

Watch our short video to learn how to submit samples to our lab for natural product testing.

You may be interested in:

Natural vs Synthetic Testing FAQ

Natural vs Synthetic Testing Standards
How Carbon-14 Analysis Enhances Garlic Oil Quality Control