What is ISO?
The
International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental international organization that develops and publishes standards to ensure the quality, safety, efficiency, and interoperability of products and services across various industries. Founded in 1947, ISO has published over 23,000 international standards covering almost all aspects of technology and manufacturing.
Role of ISO in Nanotechnology
In the context of
nanotechnology, ISO plays a crucial role in developing standardized terminology, testing methods, and safety guidelines. These standards help harmonize research, development, and commercialization efforts globally, ensuring that nanomaterials and nanotechnologies are safe, reliable, and effective.
ISO Technical Committee on Nanotechnology (ISO/TC 229)
The
ISO Technical Committee 229 (ISO/TC 229) is responsible for nanotechnology standards. Established in 2005, ISO/TC 229 focuses on the following key areas:
Safety and Risk Management: They ensure that nanomaterials are safe for use and help manage potential risks associated with their production and application.
Quality Assurance: Standards provide a benchmark for the quality and performance of nanomaterials and nanotechnologies, fostering trust among stakeholders.
Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to standardized guidelines helps companies meet regulatory requirements more efficiently.
Interoperability: Standards ensure compatibility and interoperability between different nanotechnology products and processes.
Examples of ISO Nanotechnology Standards
Some notable ISO standards in nanotechnology include: ISO/TS 80004 series: These standards cover terminology and nomenclature in nanotechnology.
ISO 10808: This standard specifies methods for characterizing nanoparticles in inhalation exposure chambers.
ISO/TR 12885: It provides guidelines for safe practices in occupational settings relevant to nanotechnologies.
ISO 17200: This standard outlines the measurement of particle size distribution of nanomaterials in suspension by nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA).
How Are ISO Standards Developed?
ISO standards are developed through a consensus-driven process involving experts from around the world. The development stages include:
Conclusion
The
International Organization for Standardization plays a pivotal role in the advancement of nanotechnology by establishing standards that ensure safety, quality, and interoperability. As nanotechnology continues to evolve, the importance of standardized guidelines in fostering innovation, ensuring safety, and facilitating global collaboration cannot be overstated.
