ISO nanomaterials definition

There’s a new definition from the International Standards Organization (ISO) for nanomaterials.  From the news item on Nanowerk,

ISO has therefore published a new technical report, ISO/TR 11360:2010, Nanotechnologies – Methodology for the classification and categorization of nanomaterials, offering a comprehensive, globally harmonized methodology for classifying nanomaterials.

ISO/TR 11360 introduces a system called the “nano-tree”, which places nanotechnology concepts into a logical context by indicating relationships among them as a branching out tree. The most basic and common elements are defined as the main trunk of the tree, and nanomaterials are then differentiated in terms of structure, chemical nature and other properties.

“The document provides users with a structured view of nanotechnology, and facilitates a common understanding of its concepts,” says Peter Hatto, Chair of the committee that developed the standard (ISO/TC 229). “It offers a systematic approach and a commonsensical hierarchy”.

The new definition is called: ISO/TR 11360:2010, Nanotechnologies – Methodology for the classification and categorization of nanomaterials. It will cost you 112 Swiss Francs or, roughly, $112.90 CAD.

I’m not sure what the big difference is between this definition and the one I posted about Oct. 24, 2008 but I suspect the difference lies in the classification level, i.e., the 2008 definition (ISO/TS 27687:2008 titled Nanotechnologies — Terminology and definitions for nano-objects — Nanoparticle, nanofibre and nanoplate) laid the groundwork for this more specific nanomaterials definition.

ETA Aug.21.10: Dexter Johnson at Nanoclast has posted about the new ISO definition and the impact this may have on commercialization of nanomaterials. Go here to read more.

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