Engineered nanoparticles: Nanometrology status and future needs within Europe

Engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) are particles designed and produced to have all external dimensions in the nanoscale (between approximately 1 nm and 100 nm). ENPs and their agglomerates and aggregates have been used in many industrial applications for many years. The recent increase in the number of different kinds of ENPs and the broader range and understanding of their functional properties promise much for future applications. However there are Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) concerns because of findings that suggest for some ENPs a different toxicity than that of the bulk material of the same composition. To profit fully from the potential of ENPs and to responsibly deal with the HSE concerns requires the development of scientifically sound classification methods for nanoparticles, distinguishing them in terms of their production method, but also in terms of their basic physico-chemical characteristics and properties. The Co-Nanomet ENP Action Group addressed the related measurement issues with the purpose of identifying and promoting metrology solutions for both airborne and suspended ENPs.

STINTZ Michael;  BABICK Frank;  ROEBBEN Gert; 

2012-10-08

Co-Nanomet Consortium

JRC63402

978-0-9566809-0-7,