We have further specialized in nanoparticle testing associated with registration of materials in the European Union and in relation to European Commission regulations. Besides, authorities such as ECHA, REACH, and EFSA also aim at a better understanding of the presence of nanoparticles in existing and new materials.
Therefore we have grouped the crucial analysis techniques like BET surface area (or better volume specific surface area: VSSA), Electron Microscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering and Differential Centrifugal Sedimentation and recently also Nanopartice Tracking Analysis in one business unit. In this way, we can optimally work for our customers in the area of nanoparticle testing. These nanomaterial testing techniques are documented in the Nanodefine methods manual and in the JRC framework that are closely related to the European Commission Recommendation on the definition of nanomaterials (2011/696/EU). Defining a material as a nanomaterial by experimental efforts is not as simple as it seems. The definition, which holds from 2011, is still valid nowadays. The definition’s boundary is that 50% or more of the particles in the number size distribution need to have an external dimension in the size range of 1 – 100 nm.
These nanoparticle testing activities are needed in the more strict REACH and EFSA registrations. Meanwhile, the huge variety of documents available on the EC website can make it hard to identify a clear research path for nanoparticle assessment. As Delft Solids Solutions we would like to facilitate this process and as such we can surely assist you in your nanomaterial testing needs.
We are currently structuring this part of our website and dedicated nanoparticles and nanomaterial pages can be found in the sub-menu on this page of nanomaterial testing.
If you would have a nano particle query, we would be happy to discuss with you your challenges – please get in contact via this contact form.
Nanomaterial and Nanoparticle Testing FAQs
Nanomaterials are subject to several European regulations, including REACH and sector-specific requirements from authorities such as EFSA and ECHA. These regulations require manufacturers and importers to assess and characterize nanomaterials using appropriate analytical methods. At Delft Solids Solutions, we support clients with reliable nanomaterial characterization and testing to help meet current European regulatory requirements.
At Delft Solids Solutions, we offer a comprehensive range of nanoparticle testing methods to characterize nanomaterials in accordance with current scientific and regulatory standards. Our expertise includes Electron Microscopy (EM), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Differential Centrifugal Sedimentation (DCS), Volume Specific Surface Area (VSSA/BET), and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA). We help clients select the most appropriate analytical technique based on their material, application, and regulatory requirements.
Nanomaterials are identified by analysing properties such as particle size, particle size distribution, morphology and specific surface area. Under the European Commission recommendation, the number-based size distribution is particularly important, with particles in the range of 1 to 100 nanometres being assessed for nanomaterial classification.
Nanoparticle testing may be required when registering substances under REACH or assessing materials under other European regulations. The required analyses depend on the properties of the substance and whether it may meet the applicable definition of a nanomaterial. A combination of analytical techniques may be needed to support a reliable assessment.
