Chapter 15 - Green synthesis of nanoparticles from bio-waste for potential applications: Current trends, challenges, and prospects

Abstract

Nanoparticle-based technology is currently revolutionizing and improving many facets of human life. It is currently being applied as an advanced technology in sectors like energy, medicine, cosmetics, electronics, and food safety. In addition, the application of nanotechnology in environment protection and waste management is among the most emerging trends. Several methods are applied for generation of nanoparticles; however, the key inclination in this regard is the concept of environment safety and “green” technologies. When equated to physical and chemical methods which are conventional methods, green or biological synthesis of nanoparticles is relatively cost-effective, simple, and safer for humans. Various low-cost and renewable materials which are being investigated as a source of precursor materials for biological synthesis of nano and waste materials of biological origin hold great potential in this regard. Synthesizing nanoparticles from bio-based waste will not only make the process cost-effective and ecofriendly, but it may also assist in solid waste management. Particularly, food and agriculture industries, producing a significant amount of organic wastes, can be harnessed for this purpose. In this chapter, we have mainly focussed on the mechanism leading to biological production of different nanoparticles and utilization of biogenic waste for the same. We have also discussed various applications of nanoparticles synthesized from bio-waste, emphasizing their role in environmental protection. Our concluding remarks suggest the challenges and feasibilities in producing nanomaterials from bio-waste and give an insight into prospects and research priorities that may help scientists for further research in this field.