18 - Nanomaterials: green synthesis, characterization, and applications

Abstract

Nanotechnology is the most important area of research in 21st century and is developing with an increasing rate because of its number of applications in almost all the sectors. Many of the methods used for preparing nanomaterials pollute the atmosphere. Nowadays green method of synthesis of nanomaterials are becoming important and gaining popularity. In this chapter green methods, particularly plant extracts and microorganisms, have been discussed for the synthesis of nanomaterials. The present chapter reviews various biogenic synthesis methods based on plant extracts, bacteria, yeast, algae, fungi, and viruses. Nanomaterials with different shapes, sizes, and bioactivity can be prepared by the variations in the bioreducing agents. There are number of parameters that affect the synthesis of nanomaterials through green rout. Various techniques have been discussed for the characterization of synthesized nanomaterials. Applications of nanomaterials in different sectors like water purification, defense, textile, medical, dental, energy, and so on have been discussed.