Overview
EN ISO 18473-2:2018 (ISO 18473-2:2015) specifies requirements and corresponding test methods for surface-modified nanoscale titanium dioxide (TiO2) in powder form intended for sunscreen applications. The standard establishes agreed characteristics and laboratory methods to support consistent product performance, regulatory compliance and transparent trade between suppliers, manufacturers and testing laboratories.
Key scope points covered:
- Definition and classification of nanoscale TiO2 (anatase or rutile as main component).
- Agreed limits and test procedures for particle size, surface area and titanium dioxide content.
- Guidance on sampling, marking/label and test reporting to ensure traceability.
Key Topics
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Particle size: Median primary particle size (TiO2 core) is to be agreed between parties; the document lists a representative threshold of ≤ 100 nm with TEM or DLS as reference methods.
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Specific surface area: Where applicable, BET specific surface area ≥ 15 m2/g (ISO 9277) is specified as a characteristic.
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Composition: Mass fraction of titanium dioxide should be ≥ 70% (test method ISO 591-1). Crystal structure (anatase or rutile) is determined by XRD.
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Impurities and contaminants: Heavy metals such as Hg, Pb and As are to comply with relevant legislative requirements. Moisture and loss on ignition values are to be agreed between interested parties and measured by established standards (ISO 787-2 and ISO 3262-1).
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Surface modification: The standard covers surface-modified TiO2; the identity and nature of surface modifiers should be agreed between buyer and supplier. Note that primary particle size measurements exclude the modifier layer when specified.
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Sampling, marking and reporting: Sampling procedures follow ISO 2859; packaging must include manufacturer, product name/type, net weight, batch number/production date, this ISO number and a "store dry" mark. Test reports must reference ISO 18473-2 and include identification, methods used, results and compliance statements.
Applications
- Formulators of sunscreens and UV-protective cosmetics seeking consistent, transparent material specifications for nanoscale TiO2.
- Raw material suppliers and buyers negotiating technical requirements and acceptance criteria.
- Analytical and test laboratories implementing TEM, DLS, BET and XRD methods to verify product claims and compliance.
- Regulatory and quality teams ensuring products meet labeling, traceability and legislative impurity limits.
Related Standards
- ISO 591-1: Titanium dioxide pigments for paints - specifications and test methods
- ISO 9277: Specific surface area (BET method)
- ISO 787-2: Determination of matter volatile at 105 °C
- ISO 2859: Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes
- ISO 3262-1: Extenders for paints - general test methods
- ISO 18473-1: Nanoscale calcium carbonate for sealant application (other part of the series)
This standard helps align technical expectations for nanoscale TiO2 used in sunscreen, improving product performance (UV attenuation and skin transparency), reproducible testing and smoother commercial transactions.