The European Commission published a new recommendation on 10 June to clarify the definition of ‘nanomaterial’ and ensure that this common definition is used in the EU.
This definition replaces the 2011 version. It is appropriate to the general context of EU policy and legislation, covering natural, incidental and manufactured materials. Among other things, it will be used for the implementation of the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability.
It should be used in European and national legislation, policies or research programmes.
The aim is to facilitate easier, more effective and consistent implementation in all sectors, including the food and cosmetics sectors.
A 2011 recommendation (2011/696/EU) provided for a review of the definition of ‘nanomaterial’ in the light of experience and scientific progress.
The review included whether to increase or decrease the 50% particle size distribution threshold based on the number of particles and whether to include materials with an internal or surface structure at the nanoscale, such as complex nanocomposite materials, including nanoporous materials, which may be used in specific sectors.
The new recommendation is based on the work of the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) and the standardisation organisations (ISO and CEN) and on consultation with stakeholders.
See the recommendation: https://aeur.eu/f/22r (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)