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New ISO/TS 27687 will help defining nanotechnologies

2008-09-25

The first concrete result of the work ISO launched in 2005 to develop standards to support the innovative field of nanotechnologies comes with the publication of ISO/TS 27687:2008, which provides terms and definitions related to particles in the field of nanotechnologies. It is intended to facilitate communications between organizations and individuals in industry and those who interact with them.

ISO/TS 27687:2008, Nanotechnologies – Terminology and definitions for nano-objects – Nanoparticle, nanofibre and nanoplate, is the first part of a projected series on terminology and definitions documents covering the different aspects of nanotechnologies.

ISO/TS 27687:2008 is concerned with the terminology and definitions for objects at the nano-scale, which come in several shapes. The three basic shapes referred to in this document are:

• nanoparticle
• nanofibre
• nanoplate.

Nanotechnologies are expected to be a key economic driver for the 21st century. They promise significant benefits, including enhancements in medical diagnosis and treatment; more efficient energy sources; lighter, stronger and cheaper materials, faster and more powerful electronic products, and cleaner, cheaper water. At the same time, particular attention is being paid to the effects of specific nanomaterials, particularly nanoparticles, on human health and the environment and ISO's work in the field includes the development of standards on these aspects.

Dr. Peter Hatto, Chair of ISO technical committee ISO/TC 229, Nanotechnologies, comments: “International standardization will play a critical role in ensuring that the full potential of nanotechnology is realized and that nanotechnology is safely integrated into society. Standards will help create a smooth transition from the laboratory to the marketplace, promote progress along the nanotechnology value chain and facilitate global trade. ISO/TS 27687:2008 helps to provide clarity in the description and naming of these fundamental building blocks for this important area of technology”.

ISO/TS 27687, Nanotechnologies – Terminology and definitions for nano-objects – Nanoparticle, nanofibre and nanoplate, was developed by ISO technical committee ISO/TC 229, Nanotechnologies. It costs 56 Swiss francs and is available from ISO national member institutes (see the complete list with contact details) and from ISO Central Secretariat through the ISO Store or by contacting the Marketing & Communication department (see right-hand column).