Highlighting the analytical and regulatory challenges for nanomaterials

(Nanowerk News) Intertek, the leading quality solutions provider to industries worldwide, has highlighted the analytical and regulatory challenges associated with the inclusion of nanomaterials to formulated products in a recent article.
Speciality Chemicals Magazine
Recently published in Speciality Chemicals Magazine, Intertek’s experts Dr Simon Allen and Dr Lorna Kettle discuss the definition of nanomaterials, the use and characterisation of nanomaterials in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics and summarise the developing regulatory environment.

The potential for nanotechnology is vast and it is quietly making its way into many products in daily life. Chemicals majors are among those leading the way, both through their own work and in partnership with academia and small specialists. Important challenges for developers of nanotechnology lie ahead and relate primarily to establishing validated methods and instrumentation for detection, characterisation and analysis, compiling relevant information on hazards of nanomaterials and developing methods to assess exposure to nanomaterials.

The regulatory landscape continues to evolve. In order to show regulatory compliance and correct implementation of EC definitions, appropriate instrumentation and methodology are critical. “The accuracy of analytical approaches is crucial if the data are to be used in notification or labelling procedures. Method validation is also a key issue” shares Dr Simon Allen, Laboratory Director, Intertek Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals. “Researchers and manufacturers must have the tools available to be able to comprehensively understand their products.”
Intertek has broad experience in the characterisation of nanomaterial ingredients and in formulated products such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, paints, coatings, electronic materials and more. Intertek also add value through expert toxicology knowledge for nanomaterial risk assessments.
“Intertek’s broad materials expertise, the wide scope of analytical technology coupled with the knowledge of how to apply this to nano-sized systems, positions Intertek well to support our client’s innovation in nanomaterials across the globe.” said Dr Phil Norman, Senior Vice President, Intertek Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals. “Intertek was pleased to have been invited to author this article for Speciality Chemicals magazine.”
Source: Intertek