Astm Forms New Nanotechnology Committee

ASTM International has formed a new committee to develop international consensus standards, definitions, terminology and procedures relating to nanotechnology. Committee E56 on Nanotechnology is chaired by Dr V Colvin of Rice University's Centre for Environmental and Biological Nanotechnology. Committee E56 is charged with the development of standards and guidance for nanotechnology and nano materials. The committee includes subcommittees in the following areas: terminology and nomenclature; characterisation; environmental and occupational health and safety; international law and intellectual property; liaison and international co-operation; and standards of care and product stewardship. See: www.astm.org/COMMIT/E56.htm.