Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements

The Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements (IRMM) is a place where scientists can learn about and measure different materials. Here, scientists can use specially-made tools and equipment to study materials like rocks, chemicals, minerals, and more. They can find out what the materials are made of, how they work, and how they can be used. For example, IRMM scientists use measurements to help make sure shoe sizes are correct, that food is safe to eat, and that medical devices such as pacemakers are working right. In short, scientists use IRMM to help us measure something so that we can better understand it.