One step closer to nanotechnology standards
EU recommends clear definition of nanoparticles
EU researchers have taken a key step towards regulating nanoparticles that are of increasing importance in cosmetics and related packaging manufacture. The Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission has recommended a clear definition that nanoparticles should be considered between 1nm and 100nm. Other specific physico-chemical properties and attributes (such as agglomeration, biopersistance or whether particles are intentionally manufactured) should also be assessed in any special nanotechnology regulations, says the JRC.
The Commission is assessing EU industrial and environmental health rules to see where special protection is required to deal with the unusual properties of nanoparticles and products made with them. The JRC’s advice comes in a report ‘Considerations on a definition of nanomaterial for regulatory purposes’, which stresses the need for “a definition… reducing ambiguity and confusion for regulators, industry and the general public”.
It recommends the term ‘particulate nanomaterial’ for legislation “to avoid inconsistencies with other definitions and that size should be… the only defining property”. That said, the JRC says that legal definitions of nanoparticles may need adapting in certain cases “to the needs of a specific implementation”. It also says consultation with manufacturers will be important. “The task of establishing a size-based definition is not straightforward,” it says.