The production and use of nanomaterials may lead, among others, to an increasing release of nano-objects into the environment e.g. by liquid waste and production streams. To ensure sustainable use and development of nanotechnology there is a need for control and monitoring of nanomaterial systems according to their application (e.g. risk assessment). For that reason, it is necessary to identify useful measurement techniques for the detection and characterisation of nano-objects in so-called complex matrices, like natural liquids, waste water, food or cosmetics.

This project aims to prepare a Technical Specification (TS) providing guidelines for detection and identification of nano-objects in complex matrices, like liquid environmental compartments and waste water. This TS assumes a prior knowledge of the nature of the nano-objects like their chemical composition. The selected detection and identification methods are based on the combination of size classification and chemical composition analysis. Corresponding requirements for sampling and sample preparation will be given. Identification can also be supported e.g. by additional morphology characterisation. The document will provide links to measurement method standards if available. This TS covers a set of appropriate methods including field-flow-fractionation technique, electron microscopy (EM) techniques SEM and TEM, single-particle ICP-MS and other emerging methods. Jan Mast, Sciensano’s predecessor representative, is responsible for the activities related to TEM analyses.