Green synthesis of gold nanoparticles

Abstract

The green synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) represents a revolutionary shift in nanotechnology, aligning with sustainability and environmental conservation principles. Traditional methods for synthesizing AuNPs often involve toxic chemicals and harsh conditions, raising concerns about their environmental and health impacts. Green synthesis leverages natural resources such as plant extracts, microorganisms, and benign chemical agents to produce AuNPs in an eco-friendly manner. This chapter covers the basic ideas and historical development of green chemistry concerning the synthesis of nanoparticles. Critical analysis is given to several biological, chemical, and physical approaches to green synthesis, emphasizing the mechanisms of stabilization and reduction made possible by phytochemicals and biomolecules. This chapter further discusses important analytical methods for determining the physicochemical characteristics of green synthesized AuNPs and assuring their appropriateness for various applications. The benefits of green synthesis are highlighted, including improved biocompatibility, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits. The chapter also covers the extensive applications of AuNPs in biomedicine, environmental remediation, and industrial catalysis, demonstrating their versatile utility. Notwithstanding the promising perspectives, issues with scalability, repeatability, and regulatory barriers still exist. Future directions on how cutting-edge technology like machine learning and artificial intelligence can be used to optimize green synthesis processes are discussed. The potential of green synthesis to transform the production of nanoparticles and support technological innovation and sustainable development is highlighted in this chapter, to facilitate the adoption and application of green synthesis in nanotechnology by tackling existing constraints and investigating potential avenues for advancement.