TSE CEN ISO/TR 18401

TSE CEN ISO/TR 18401 is a technical report that explains selected terms from the ISO/IEC 80004 vocabulary series for nanotechnologies in plain language. In a fast-moving field such as nanotechnology, the same concepts can be read differently by different stakeholders, so this document is meant to support a shared conceptual understanding.

Why plain-language terminology matters

This document is aimed at people making decisions about the direction, management, and application of nanotechnologies. The ISO/IEC 80004 series provides an international vocabulary framework for concepts such as nanomaterial, nano-object, and nanostructure. The value of this report is not to add a new set of requirements, but to make those technical definitions easier to understand and apply consistently.

Technical context for nanotechnology vocabulary

AS GENERAL TECHNICAL CONTEXT, nanotechnology deals with materials, particles, and structures at the nanoscale, where size-related effects can strongly influence properties and behaviour. In this area, distinctions between terms matter: a material, an object, and a structure may be related but not interchangeable. Consistent vocabulary helps researchers, engineers, and decision-makers compare information, write clearer documentation, and avoid ambiguity across disciplines.

This TSE edition focuses on selected terms from the vocabulary series. It does not define the whole field of nanotechnology or prescribe a test method. It serves as a clarification aid for organisations that need to read and use nanotechnology terminology accurately.

• Explains selected nanotechnology terms from the ISO/IEC 80004 series in plain language.
• Targets stakeholders involved in nanotechnology direction, management, and application.
• Helps distinguish closely related concepts in nanotechnology vocabulary.
• Supports more consistent technical communication across the field.