Overview - ISO 80004-1:2023 (Nanotechnologies - Core vocabulary)
ISO 80004-1:2023 is the first edition of the ISO vocabulary for nanotechnologies. It defines core terms and definitions used across nanoscience, nanotechnology and nanomaterials to promote consistent communication between researchers, industry, regulators and other stakeholders. The document consolidates earlier technical specifications into one core vocabulary, clarifies the term nanoscale, and adds several updated definitions (including a newly introduced term noted in the foreword).
Key SEO phrases: ISO 80004-1:2023, nanotechnology vocabulary, nanoscale, nanomaterial, nano-object, nanostructure.
Key topics and requirements
- Core definitions: Provides standardized meanings for fundamental terms such as:
- nanoscale - length range approximately from 1 nm to 100 nm;
- nanoscience, nanotechnology;
- nanomaterial, nano-object, nanostructure.
- Hierarchy and scope: Describes relationships between nanomaterial, nano-object and nanostructured material and clarifies when a material is considered nanostructured.
- Categories: Defines categories of nanostructured materials (e.g., nanostructured powder, nanocomposite, solid nanofoam, nanoporous material, fluid nanodispersion).
- Coatings and films: Differentiates terms for coatings/layers with nanoscale thickness from coatings with nanoscale internal structure.
- Normative status: There are no normative references in this part; its primary requirement is to adopt consistent terminology for communication and documentation.
- Updates: Merges and replaces several previous ISO/TS parts and revises key definitions to reflect current practice.
Applications and practical value
- Standardizes terminology for technical reports, product specifications, safety data sheets, regulatory submissions, patents and procurement documents.
- Improves clarity in cross-disciplinary collaboration (materials science, electronics, pharmaceuticals, environmental health and safety).
- Supports consistent risk assessment, labeling, testing and compliance where precise identification of nanoscale characteristics is required.
- Helps manufacturers and researchers describe nano-forms, nano-objects and nanostructured materials in a reproducible way.
Who should use this standard
- Nanotechnology researchers and product developers
- Materials scientists and characterization labs
- Regulatory bodies, safety assessors and compliance teams
- Standards writers, quality managers and procurement professionals
Related standards
Using ISO 80004-1:2023 ensures consistent use of nanotechnology vocabulary across documentation, reducing ambiguity in technical communication and regulatory contexts.
