Free of nanoparticles

According to representative surveys, over half of the German population knows little or nothing about nanoparticles or nanotechnology. Many consider nanotechnology to be the cutting edge technology of the 21st century. However, this technology has been in place for decades, for example in medicine and coating technology. Many of the products we use every day now contain components that are manufactured using nanotechnology processes. However, there is no legal requirement stating that these substances must be labelled accordingly, just as there are no specific approval regulations. Nanoparticles are defined as substances that do not exceed 100 nm (nanometres) in at least one of their dimensions (length, height, depth). In comparison: A human hair has a diameter of approximately 80,000 nm. Due to their small size, nanoparticles have specific properties that differ from larger particles of the same substance. Nevertheless, the question as to whether nanoparticles pose risks for humans and the environment remains unanswered. Because of their small size and increased reactivity, nanoparticles may present heightened health risks. The assumption here is that the main risk factor comes from breathing in nano-fine particles.

SKK will not use nanotechnology in the manufacture of any of its products as long as it has not been conclusively proven that nanoparticles do not pose a long-term risk!