A recent review highlights the significant impact of dispersion methods on the outcomes of toxicity tests involving nanoparticles. The authors found that variations in dispersion methods, such as sonication settings and the composition of the dispersion medium, can affect the agglomerate particle size and, consequently, the toxicity of nanoparticles. The authors emphasise the need for better guidance, which has recently been published in the updated OECD guidance on sample preparation and dosimetry.

Cell-based assays have shown promise in predicting the lung toxicity of silica nanomaterials. Two different tests provided a ranking of the potential of different silica nanoparticles to cause persistent lung inflammation in rats. The research by the EU project SAbyNa demonstrated that cell tests can play a vital role in comparing the hazards of various candidate nanomaterials within a Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) framework, aiding in the selection of safer materials during product development. Further development of cell testing is needed for other silica particles, (nano)materials and different exposure conditions.

The European Union’s Court of Justice recently upheld the General Court’s decision to cancel the classification of titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles, including nanoparticles, as a suspected human carcinogen. The classification was cancelled following successful appeals from manufacturers, producers and importers. An appeal to the General Court’s ruling by the EC and France was unsuccessful, and as a result, TiO2 is no longer classified as a carcinogen.

The NanoHarmony project emphasises the importance of standardising safety test methods to enhance their regulatory acceptance. It highlights the benefits of standardisation, such as showcasing the value of developers' work, expanding their networks, and improving safety testing. However, challenges include a lack of knowledge about the process, inconsistent funding, and the lengthy duration of method development and validation for regulatory acceptance. To address these issues, NanoHarmony has created resources like a white paper, training modules, and the OECD TG/GD Process Mentor to guide developers through the standardisation process.

The European Chemicals Industry Action Plan (CIAP) aims to strengthen the EU chemical sector while prioritising safety, sustainability, and climate goals. The plan includes proposed actions such as forming a Critical Chemicals Alliance, simplifying labelling rules, and introducing an Advanced Materials Act by the end of 2026 to foster innovation in materials essential for clean technology and the circular economy. However, the lack of clear definitions for "advanced" materials and the challenges in properly assessing their safety and lifecycle risks are a concern. This highlights the need for reliable data and established test methods and risk assessment methodologies targeted at advanced materials that allow navigating these complexities.

The German Environment Agency (UBA) conducted a systematic literature review to identify advanced materials that are used in the energy transition. These advanced materials may pose potential risks to human health and the environment. To ensure that the energy transition itself does not create new health, environmental or social risks, it is necessary to carefully consider the safety and sustainability of these materials.

Early4AdMa is an early awareness and action system for identifying emerging issues of advanced materials. Its first application on nanocarriers has revealed several potential issues for nanocarrier materials. These include the applicability of current regulations regarding nanocarriers. In various chemical domains this needs to be critically assessed in more detail. Further, research activities should focus on the carrier’s influence on the active ingredient. What happens to the carrier itself after its work is done also requires attention. Overall, the workshop results demonstrate that the Early4AdMa system may help to identify potential issues with safety, sustainability, and regulation. Provided that these issues are addressed through follow-up actions, this may help regulatory preparedness and contribute to safer materials.

Electronic waste (e-waste) is a valuable source of precious and rare metals. Recycling of e-waste is an essential step towards sustainability. Scientists are currently studying methods to convert the metals present in e-waste into nanoparticles. However, it is important to consider the possible risks associated with this process to maximise its positive environmental impact.

Danish researchers assessed recommendations for adjustments to legislation for nanomaterials published in 2004. While many of these recommendations were partly or fully met, some legislation still needs adjustments for nanomaterials. For example, the definition of nanomaterials differs between legislations. Additionally, instruments to measure nanomaterials and test methods require further development to meet regulatory requirements and enable enforcement. Advanced materials may pose additional challenges in risk assessment. The legislation amendments for nanomaterials may not necessarily identify potential hazards and risks for advanced materials.

Respirable rigid fibres are considered more hazardous than non-rigid fibres. However, there is currently no standardised method to measure fibre rigidity. A new approach uses techniques to identify changes at the molecular level in cells. This approach can distinguish between different types of carbonaceous materials. The researchers could tell the difference between rigid fibres, non-rigid fibres, and non-fibrous carbonaceous materials. For this they looked at which biological pathways were affected. This method will help group different types of fibres into hazard categories based on their rigidity.