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Metrology

Metrology is the science of measurement and its application. NIST's work in metrology focuses on advancing measurement science to enhance economic security and improve quality of life. 

Almost all of NIST’s research has a metrology component to it. NIST’s metrology-related resources and activities include  calibrations, standard reference materials, standard reference data, test methods, proficiency evaluation materials, tools that facilitate the evaluation of measurement uncertainty, measurement quality assurance programs, and laboratory accreditation services that assist customers in establishing traceability of measurement results.

A key component of NIST’s metrology work is metrological traceability, which requires the establishment of an unbroken chain of calibrations to specified reference measurement standards: typically national or international standards, in particular realizations of the measurement units of the International System of Units (SI). 

NIST assures the traceability to the SI, or to other specified standards, of measurement results that NIST itself provides, either directly or through an official NIST program or collaboration. Other organizations are responsible for establishing the traceability of their own results to national reference standards maintained by NIST or to other specified reference standards. Learn more about metrological traceability.

The Research

Projects & Programs

Precision Electro-Mechanical Experiments (PREME)

Ongoing
NIST-4 Kibble Balance Previously called ‘the Electronic Kilogram’ Project, a major component of PREME is the realization of SI unit of mass, the kilogram, using the NIST-4 Kibble balance, the fourth generation of Kibble balances at NIST. This is accomplished through a high-accuracy comparison of

Quantum Transport Measurements

Ongoing
It is necessary to isolate, control, and understand the fundamental physics of exotic states of matter to create nanoengineered systems with the requisite quantum properties for quantum information systems and advanced computing applications. We develop measurement capabilities and design test

Acoustic Techniques in Fluid Metrology

Ongoing
In collaboration with NIST's Chemical Sciences Division, we use photoacoustic resonators for continuous monitoring of the CO2 concentration in ambient air from a tall building rooftop; (see Fig. 2) [ 1] for measuring the optical properties of particles (e.g. soot) in air that affect the energy

Chemical Metrology for Polymers Manufacturing

Ongoing
This project is designed to strengthen the analytical capabilities of polymers manufacturers by introducing reference materials, critically evaluating standard test methods, and educating those industry representatives who participate in standards development organizations. Certified reference

Additional Resources Links

News

‘The Last Artifact’ Brings Metrology to TV

Remember that documentary you saw that finally explained metrology and why measurements are critical to practically every aspect of modern life? Yeah, neither do I. Probably because that documentary doesn’t exist … Or does it? The Last Artifact, a new one-hour film that PBS stations are planning to broadcast starting this month, aims to fill that cinematic void by bringing metrology to the people

Just for KICS!

NIST Study Probes the Damaging Effects of Radiation on Qubits

A Better Balance for Tiny Liquid Masses

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Upcoming Events

89 Fundamentals of Metrology

Mon, Jan 27 - Fri, Jan 31 2025
Course Description The 5-day Fundamentals of Metrology seminar is an intensive course that introduces participants to

88 Volume Metrology Seminar

Mon, Feb 3 - Fri, Feb 7 2025
Course Description The 5-day OWM Volume Metrology Seminar is designed to enable metrologists to apply fundamental

86 Metric System Education Resources

Thu, Feb 13 2025, 5:00 - 6:30pm EST
The International System of Units (SI), commonly known as the metric system, is easy to use and learn when taught using