European Observatory for Nanomaterials

New JRC report sheds light on identifying nanomaterials

The report by the EU’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) outlines measurement options and factors to take into account when determining if a particular material fits the definition of a nanomaterial. It may also be helpful for companies registering their nanoforms under the REACH Regulation.

Helsinki, 17 December 2019 – This report follows up on previous reports from the JRC, the European Commission’s science and knowledge service, on the key concepts and terms used in the definition of a nanomaterial. The report is applicable across all relevant regulations and may be particularly useful for companies registering their nanomaterials under the REACH regulation.

While the European Commission published its recommendation for the definition of a nanomaterial (2011/696/EU) in 2011, the practical implementation of the definition still poses a number of technical and scientific challenges. The latest JRC report helps address a number of these challenges and provides useful information relevant for the implementation of the definition.

Background

By 1 January 2020, companies must provide additional information on nanomaterials on the EU/EEA market under the REACH Regulation. The new information requirements concern companies that manufacture or import nanoforms of substances that are subject to registration under REACH. Nanoforms of substances are those that fulfil the European Commission’s recommendation for a definition of a nanomaterial.