Nanomaterials: Tiny particles mediate manifold properties
FAQ dated 13 September 2024
Updated version of the FAQ dated 18. October 2021
The term "nanos" originates from the Greek language and means dwarf. The prefix "nano" denotes a billionth part, in this case of a metre (= 1 nanometre, nm). In general, a material is called a nanomaterial when it is in the size range between 1 to 100 nm in at least one external dimension.
Nanomaterials are a subject of the BfR's scientific risk assessment. They can be produced in numerous forms from different chemical substances. Compared to their conventional counterparts, nanomaterials have altered and, in some cases, novel properties and functions that make them interesting for many areas of application, but also deserve special attention from a regulatory perspective.
Nanomaterials are used in many areas of daily life, for example in cosmetic products, food packaging and numerous consumer goods. This is not always obvious to consumers. Specific labelling regulations apply to some product areas such as food and cosmetics.
Production volumes and the variety of forms are continuously increasing, which can also lead to increased and possibly new types of exposure for consumers, for example if nanomaterials are released from products. Whether nanomaterials or products containing them can pose health risks to consumers cannot be answered in general terms. Nanosafety research is therefore concerned with the possible risks of nanomaterials for human health and the environment.
In the following, the BfR has compiled selected questions and answers on nanomaterials.