A new ASTM International standard will support the characterization of engineered gold nanoparticles used in advanced technologies, including biomedical applications. ASTM’s nanotechnology committee (E56) developed the new standard (E3269).

Gold nanoparticles are being used in electronics, catalysis, and advanced coatings, but the largest application has been for biomedical purposes. These include imaging, diagnostics, photothermal therapy and targeted drug delivery.

“The new standard addresses the need for validated methods to characterize the unique properties of nanoscale particles and tackles knowledge gaps stemming from the use of inadequately characterized nanomaterials,” says ASTM International member Karen Murphy, research chemist, National Institute of Standards and Technology. “The standard provides procedures for the measurement of the mass fraction of particle bound gold in colloidal gold suspensions.”

The new standard will be useful to producers, researchers, and regulators studying the efficacy and safety of gold nanomaterials. This effort directly relates to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #3 on good health and well-being.

All stakeholders who are interested in helping to develop standards for the physical and chemical characterization of nanomaterials are welcome to join ASTM International’s nanotechnology committee. 



Media Inquiries: Jaime Martorana, tel +1.610.832.9796; jmartorana@astm.org 
Committee Contact: Kathleen Chalfin, tel +1.610.832.9717; kchalfin@astm.org

Release #11258
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