Treatment of Nanotechnology under the TSCA and REACH

Perhaps the most important new chemical technology developed over the past decades is nanotechnology. It is a particularly interesting example of technology to discuss within the context of this book because its implementation raises significant questions about two major scientific issues chemical identity and identifying risk. Nanotechnology clearly has enormous potential benefit to society. This has been exploited in miniaturised products such as cameras inserted into the veins and arteries of humans, but nano-sized chemicals may cause harm as they journey to places in the human body where conventional substances cannot. 

Nanotechnology refers to a field of science whose theme is the control of matter on an atomic and molecular scale. In general, nanotechnology deals with structures of the size 100 nm, and involves developing materials or devices within that size. Nanotechnology is extremely diverse, ranging from novel extensions of conventional devices to completely new approaches based upon development of new materials with dimensions on the nanoscale. 

It is accepted that society must proceed with due caution in evolving technology. Nevertheless, regulation of nanotechnology presents significant difficulties in the interpretation of what distinguishes nanoparticles as distinct chemical entities as compared with conventionally sized particles, and the science of risk assessment to determine possible hazards associated with the manufacture and use of these substances. 

Nanoproducts can be used at exceedingly low volumes. This mitigates potential risk to some extent. Their small size and extremely high surface area leads to exposures and interactions not previously examined. Risk assessment is driven by data and, for technical and economic reasons, it may be impractical to conduct many common types of animal toxicity tests. 

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