Green synthesis of metal based nanomaterials a new and unassailable approach for environmental amelioration

Abstract

Nanoparticles are particles of matter with size dimensions within the range of 1-100nm. Because of their unique properties, they are being explored for every single field of the modern era. Due to the concerns associated with their toxicity, nowadays, preferences are being given to green nanoparticles. These nanoparticles are extensively used by humans for ameliorating their internal as well as external environment. The presented work was undertaken to synthesise and explore the potential of different nanoparticles in this area. Nanoparticles of silver, copper, and iron oxide were synthesised by using different principles of green chemistry. Different green approaches used involve plant-mediated synthesis by Koelreuteria apiculata extract, use of microwave irradiations along with plant extract, and exploitation of iron rust as a salt precursor. To compare their performance with chemical counterparts, nanoparticles were also synthesized by the chemical precipitation methods. To discern their toxicity, the synthesized nanoparticles were tested against a series of living test models, which reflected the non-toxicity of green nanoparticles. Green nanoparticles showed positive results as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents and were successfully used as detectors of melamine, a serious milk adulterant. The comparative applications of green and chemically synthesized nanoparticles were performed as sensors of metal ions like silver and lead and for the removal of carcinogenic dyes via adsorption and degradation. The obtained results favoured the use of green nanoparticles for the above-said applications. Finally, the fate of nanoparticles was tracked after their release in the environment via a series of simulated laboratory methods. newline