The Necessities and Approaches of Standardization of An Emerging Technology: A Comparative Study of Nanotechnology Standardization in Selected Countries

Due to the ambiguity and uncertainty in the nature of nanotechnology, its commercialization requires the creation of an appropriate regulatory system, which requires technology standardization. Technology standardization, on the one hand, provides the infrastructure for safety, health, and the environment, and on the other hand, facilitates the necessary conditions for commercialization and global competitiveness. This research aims to study the standardization frameworks in support of nanotechnology and can help highlight the strengths, and identify policy and institutional weaknesses in nanotechnology standardization, and provide a good guide to address these policy gaps for policy makers. In this research, using comparative analyses, the nanotechnology standardization approaches in Iran is compared to leading countries (United States, Germany and China). The results show that standardization needs are almost the same in different stages of the nanotechnology life cycle in countries and the difference is in how to meet the needs, implement policies and address the challenges arising from development and application of technology. On the other hand, despite the relative appropriate position of nanotechnology standardization in Iran compared to the studied countries, maintaining and promoting this position requires strengthening nanometrology infrastructure, developing laboratory equipment, bridging the gap between research and standardization, attracting private sector participation, developing specialized institutions and focus on educational activities.