What is a general term for a material that encompasses nanoparticles?

The term "nanomaterial" is a general designation for materials that exhibit unique properties at the nanoscale, which typically ranges from 1 to 100 nanometers. Nanomaterials can include a broad range of substances, including nanoparticles, nanostructures, and materials containing nanoparticles. Their small size can greatly alter their physical and chemical properties, making them useful in various applications, such as electronics, medicine, and materials science.

While "nanotechnology" is the overarching field that encompasses the study and application of nanoparticles and other nanomaterials, it is not a term that refers specifically to the materials themselves. "Nanocomposite" refers specifically to materials that combine nanoparticles with other components to enhance the properties of the base material. "Organic material," in contrast, pertains to substances generally containing carbon and not specifically to the nanoscale or nanoparticle context.

Thus, "nanomaterial" is the most suitable term for describing materials that include nanoparticles, as it covers a wider range of nanoscale substances.