Their small size, which many agencies define as 1 to 100 nanometers, makes characterization of nanomaterials uniquely challenging. Modern instruments that incorporate X-ray diffraction (XRD), light scattering, electron microscopy and other techniques have allowed scientists to view particles at smaller scales than ever before. This has opened the door for better drug design, creation of stronger materials, and improved environmental and food quality investigations among other things. Check back regularly for our most recent updates on the topic of nanomaterial characterization.