Aquatic nanotoxicology: impact of carbon nanomaterials on algal flora

Abstract

Currently, different nanomaterials are being used in various commercial products in different sectors. Among them, carbon nanomaterials are one of the most promising engineered nanoforms of material. The excellent flexibility and capability to conduct electricity and heat make them suitable for many industrial purposes. It is predicted that nanomaterials production volumes will be increasing constantly during the next decades. However, the question arises what would be the impact of this wide usage of carbon nanomaterials on the environment in upcoming years. As ultimate disposal of these nanomaterials occurs in the aquatic ecosystems, it is very essential to assess its toxicological impact on it. Nevertheless, the risk assessment of carbon nanomaterials is a very intricate task. The reason is that a quantification of carbon nanomaterials in the carbon-rich environment is not at all easy. Hence, it is well evident that there is a necessity of the current research and development to investigate the potential aquatic toxicity of nanomaterials. Algae being an integral part of an aquatic ecosystem could play a role in monitoring tool for assessing the impact of carbon nanomaterial on the aquatic ecosystem. Seeking this correlation, this review focuses on the impact of carbon nanomaterials on algal flora. The mechanism effectually attributing the toxicity on algae is discussed, and future recommendations are made.