Iran has submitted two proposals to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to develop international nanotechnology standards.
The first proposal targets silica aerogel-based thermal insulation coatings containing nanomaterials. It aims to define key properties, measurement methods, and performance evaluation criteria.
Silica aerogels have a nanoporous structure and strong thermal insulation capabilities. Therefore, researchers consider them promising materials for advanced insulation coatings. An international standard could help manufacturers and researchers assess these products using consistent methods. It could also make performance comparisons easier across different markets.
Iran’s second proposal focuses on graphene-based materials for electrochemical energy storage. The proposed standard would establish methods to evaluate and compare their performance.
Graphene-based materials have gained importance as battery and supercapacitor technologies continue to develop. Standardized evaluation could support their wider use in advanced energy storage systems.
The ISO/TC 229 Technical Committee on Nanotechnology will discuss both proposals during its meeting in Mexico from October 19 to 23, 2026. Iranian representatives will participate online.
Iran ranks fourth among countries proposing international nanotechnology standards, following the United States, South Korea, and Japan. Iranian proposals have contributed to the development of 13 international nanotechnology standards.
Meanwhile, Iran’s nanotechnology sector has expanded beyond research and academic activities. More than 430 companies now operate in the sector, while around 1,965 products hold nanoscale certificates.
Sales of these products have exceeded 970 trillion rials, or approximately $554 million. These figures highlight the sector’s growing role in industrial and commercial activity.
Iran has also developed programs that connect research with industrial production. These efforts include technology laboratories, product evaluation standards, startup support, and industrial development programs.
During the Iranian year ending in March 2026, authorities issued nanoscale certificates for 230 products. The figure exceeded the target of 190 products.
Tehran led the provinces with 64 newly certified products. Fars followed with 48, while Mazandaran recorded 24. Industrial supplies accounted for the largest share, with 72 products. Energy and oil industries followed with 41, while chemicals accounted for 36. Pharmaceutical and health products represented 26 products.