Overview
SIST-TS CEN/TS 18269:2026, developed by SIST and based on CEN/TS 18269:2026, provides essential guidance for the identification, selection, and use of available techniques to determine the aggregation and agglomeration state of nano-objects. This technical specification is pertinent for nano-objects in powders, aerosols, and suspensions. It includes recommendations surrounding appropriate measurement methods, key measurands, and best practices for sample preparation.
Accurate characterization of the aggregation and agglomeration state is critical for understanding the behavior and properties of nanomaterials. This is especially important in nanotechnology-related research, quality assurance, safety assessment, product development, and regulatory compliance.
Key Topics
- Terminology & Definitions: Comprehensive definitions for nano-objects, agglomerates, aggregates, and related terms are provided, based on internationally harmonized standards (e.g., EN ISO 80004-1).
- Measurands: Guidance on quantities to be measured, such as particle size distribution, number of particles, shape, specific surface area, and apparent particle density.
- Measurement Methods: Overview of routinely available techniques for assessing aggregation and agglomeration in different physical forms-powders, aerosols, and suspensions.
- Sample Preparation: Recommendations for preparing samples for measurement, including the effects of sonication, deagglomeration energy, and environmental factors on aggregation state.
- Temporal Behavior and Stability: Discussion of the time-dependent nature of agglomeration and aggregation states, including factors like chemical environment, pH, temperature, and the influence of additives.
- Distinction Between Aggregate and Agglomerate: Explanation of differences in bonding strengths, physical structure, and techniques for identification and quantification.
- Limitations and Challenges: Recognition of the complexity in distinguishing and quantifying agglomerates and aggregates, and the importance of multi-parametric approaches for robust characterization.
Applications
The guidance provided by SIST-TS CEN/TS 18269:2026 has broad practical value in various fields:
- Nanomaterial Development: Facilitates control over particle properties, enabling tailored functionality in advanced materials, coatings, and composites.
- Quality Assurance: Ensures consistency in nanoproduct performance by providing standardized approaches for aggregation/agglomeration assessment.
- Workplace and Consumer Safety: Supports regulatory compliance and risk assessment, particularly for materials prone to dispersion in workplace or environmental settings.
- Toxicology & Environmental Science: Informs studies on the stability, transport, inhalability, and bioavailability of nanomaterials in different media.
- Research and Innovation: Empowers laboratories and R&D centers in selecting suitable measurement and sample preparation methods for reliable nanomaterial characterization.
Related Standards
Users of SIST-TS CEN/TS 18269:2026 may also refer to related international standards for complementary guidance:
- EN ISO 80004-1: Nanotechnologies - Vocabulary - Part 1: Core terms
- CEN ISO/TS 80004-6: Nanotechnologies - Vocabulary - Part 6: Nano-object characterization
- ISO/TS 22107: Nanotechnologies - Quantification of protein adsorption on nanoparticles
- ISO 26824: Particle characterization - Terminology
- EN ISO 29464: Cleaning equipment for air and other gases - Terminology
Summary
SIST-TS CEN/TS 18269:2026 is a crucial resource for anyone involved in nanotechnology. By aligning industry practices with current terminology, offering a framework for method selection, and emphasizing the significance of aggregation and agglomeration state, it strengthens the quality, safety, and innovation capabilities within the nanomaterials field. For comprehensive, routine characterization and reliable data across industries and regulatory domains, conformance to this technical specification is strongly recommended.