Many analytical laboratories require a rapid verification that the starting materials or synthesized products are the correct materials. Later in the manufacturing process, the detection and identification of impurities becomes more critical. To fully characterize a sample, the use of additional techniques, such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), infra-red spectroscopy, and LC/MS or GC/MS is required.  The QC laboratory for the bulk chemical manufacturer is looking to characterize the product for consistency, as well as quality control of reagents and intermediates.