Nanotechnologies and nanomaterials are applied in consumer products. Examples of consumer products that are claimed to contain nanoparticles or produced using nanotechnology, are the use of titanium dioxide in sunscreens, cerium oxide nanoparticles in diesel for combustion improvement and antibacterial properties of silver nanoparticles in wound dressings, textiles or large appliances.
Consumers use various products that are (according to the label) produced using nanotechnology or contain nanomaterials. Sometimes this is indeed the case, but nano can also be used as a marketing instrument without proof of the use of nano.
Role of RIVM
RIVM has a signalling function for new developments in nanotechnology for a large audience and cooperates with many other organisations. (see also nanotechnology in consumer products ). ConsExpo nano is a tool by RIVM for the assessment of potential consumer exposure to nanomaterials in consumer spray products.