Overview
CEN ISO/TS 80004-12:2017 (ISO/TS 80004-12:2016) is a technical specification that defines the vocabulary of quantum phenomena in nanotechnology. It provides standardized terms and concise definitions to promote clear communication among industry, academia, regulators and other stakeholders working with nano-enabled products and technologies. The document clarifies concepts such as quantum confinement, tunnelling, entanglement and quasi‑particles while noting that many terms may also apply beyond the nanoscale.
Key topics and requirements
This Technical Specification does not prescribe test methods; instead it:
- Lists and defines terms grouped by topic:
- General quantum concepts (e.g., de Broglie wavelength, quantization, quantum number)
- Basic quantum effects (e.g., quantum tunnelling, Aharonov‑Bohm effect)
- Size‑dependent quantum effects (e.g., quantum confinement)
- Structural and organizational terms (e.g., quasi‑particle, surface plasmon)
- Terms associated with quantum information (e.g., qubit, quantum coherence, superposition)
- Includes informative annexes that help users: Annex A (classical and quantum physics terms), Annex B (mapping between terms and applications/products), Annex C (index) and a bibliography.
- Emphasizes that the list is important but not exhaustive, reflecting consensus from stakeholders and intended for future extension.
Practical applications and who uses it
CEN ISO/TS 80004-12:2017 is primarily used to:
- Ensure consistent terminology in technical documentation, product specifications, regulatory submissions and academic publications.
- Support interdisciplinary teams (materials scientists, physicists, engineers, product developers) in describing quantum‑related effects in nanomaterials and nano‑devices.
- Help standards committees, regulatory bodies and purchasers assess and classify nano‑enabled products where quantum phenomena are relevant (e.g., quantum dots, plasmonic sensors, single‑electron devices, quantum information components).
- Aid technical education and supplier‑customer communication by reducing ambiguity around terms such as quantum tunnelling, quantum confinement, qubit, and surface plasmon.
Related standards
This part is one of the ISO/TS 80004 series (Nanotechnologies - Vocabulary). Closely related parts include:
- ISO/TS 80004-1 through -8 (core terms, nano‑objects, carbon nano‑objects, nanostructured materials, nano/bio interface, characterization, healthcare, nanomanufacturing)
- Other parts under development (e.g., nano‑enabled electrotechnical and photonic systems, graphene and 2D materials)
Keywords: CEN ISO/TS 80004-12:2017, quantum phenomena, nanotechnology vocabulary, quantum confinement, quantum tunnelling, qubit, surface plasmon, nanotechnology standards.