Standardised measurements of surface functionalities on nanoparticles

Nanoparticles have applications across numerous industries, from green energy and information storage to cosmetics and medicine. As the applications of these nanoparticles become more complex, so too do their particular shapes and surface chemistries. Accurately characterising nanoparticle surfaces is therefore vital for quality control, to address potential safety concerns and to ensure manufacturers can meet the requirements of regulations. There is also need for measurement methods to specifically assess quality and safety of nanomedicines and nanomaterials used in health applications.

Building on the work of EMPIR project ESCoShell and Partnership project MetrINo, this project will develop methods and materials for characterising nanoparticles and nanomaterials. Methods for quantifying surface functionalities and coatings of nanomaterials will be created, contributing to Preliminary Work Items (PWI) by ISO TC229 and IEC TC113. A validated quantitative procedure will also be developed to measure the thickness, composition and other surface functionalisation using electron spectroscopies. These methods and procedures will then be used to perform interlaboratory comparisons to quantify and determine the surface chemistry of different types of nano-objects and industry-relevant polymer nano-objects, combining spectroscopic, optical and electrochemical methods. Input from these interlaboratory comparisons will be used to develop reference materials, data and methods with scope to initiate future BIPM CCQM pilot studies and contribute to standards work by ISO TC 229, ISO TC 201 and IEC TC113.

The work of this project will allow nanoparticles to be accurately and traceably characterised, improving consumer confidence, user safety and the ability of manufacturers to meet regulation requirements.