A new certified reference material for size and shape analysis of nanorods using electron microscopy

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Accurate characterization of nanomaterials is essential for regulatory compliance and scientific advancement.
• Existing methods for nanoparticle size and shape analysis require reliable reference materials for quality assurance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and certify a new reference material for the size and shape analysis of elongated nanoparticles.
• To provide a traceable standard for electron microscopy-based measurements of titanium dioxide nanorods.

Main Methods:

• Development of a certified reference material (CRM) using titanium dioxide nanorods dispersed in 1-butanol (ERM-FD103).
• Homogeneity and stability assessments using transmission electron microscopy.
• Certification of electron microscopy-based measurands through an interlaboratory comparison.

Main Results:

• The CRM (ERM-FD103) was certified for various size and shape parameters, including Feret diameter and aspect ratio.
• Homogeneity showed low relative standard uncertainties (0.3–1.7%).
• The material demonstrated stability for 18 months at 18 °C, with certified values traceable to the SI unit of length (meter) and relative expanded uncertainties of 4–6%.

Conclusions:

• The developed CRM (ERM-FD103) is fit-for-purpose for quality assurance and calibration of electron microscopy techniques for nanoparticle analysis.
• This CRM supports the implementation of EU legislation related to nanomaterials by providing reliable metrological traceability.
• The study details the process of transforming industrial nanomaterials into a certified reference material.