A review on nanobioremediation approaches for restoration of contaminated soil

Abstract

Nanotechnological approaches are emerging as one of the most contemporary restoration strategies that may be used to remove a variety of contaminants from the environment, including heavy metals, organic and inorganic pollutants. The application of nanoparticles (NPs) is entrenched with biological processes to boost up the removal of toxic compounds from contaminated soils. Many efforts have been taken to increase the effectiveness of phytoremediation such as the addition of chemical additives, application of rhizobacteria, and genetic engineering, etc. In this context, the integration of nanotechnology with bioremediation has introduced new dimensions to the reclamation methods. Thus, advanced remediation methods that combine nanotechnology with phytoremediation and bioremediation, where nano-scale process regulation aids in the absorption and breakdown of pollutants. NPs absorb/adsorb a variety of contaminants and also catalyze reactions by lowering the energy required for their breakdown due to unique surface properties. As a result, these nanobioremediation procedures decrease the accumulation of contaminants while simultaneously limiting their dispersal from one medium to another. Therefore, the present review is dealing with all the possibilities of the application of NPs for restoration of contaminated soils.