A new EUON study prepared by Yordas Group and the NIA examines how surface modifications can influence the behaviour and toxicity of nanomaterials. The report concludes that while the nanoparticle core generally drives hazard characteristics, more consistent terminology is needed to support both research and regulation.
NIA and Yordas Publish Study on Surface-Treated Nanomaterials
https://euon.echa.europa.eu/documents/d/euon/assessment-of-health-and-environmental-hazards-and-risks-of-surface-treated-nanomaterials
NIA Staff
1 min read
Summary
The Nanotechnology Industries Association (NIA) and NIA member Yordas Group have published a new study for the European Union Observatory for Nanomaterials (EUON) examining the health and environmental implications of surface-treated nanomaterials.
The report, Assessment of Health and Environmental Hazards and Risks of Surface-Treated Nanomaterials, explores how modifications to a nanomaterial's surface can influence its behaviour and potential hazard profile. While the findings indicate that the core material of a nanoparticle remains the primary factor determining its intrinsic hazards, surface treatments can affect toxicity in certain cases. However, the study found no consistent relationship that applies across all nanomaterials.
A key conclusion of the report is the need for clearer and more consistent terminology to describe both nanomaterials and their surface modifications. The authors highlight that greater alignment between scientific research and regulatory frameworks would improve communication, support hazard assessment and facilitate regulatory decision-making.
