Marriage of Green Technology and Chemistry – bismuth-based nanoparticles: a remarkable combination

Abstract

ABSTRACT Advancement of reliable and eco-friendly approaches for nanoparticles growth is a basic key to the regulation of nanotechnology. For a decade, various nanoparticles have been constantly evaluated and used for different applications. In particular, bismuth (Bi) nanoparticles are receiving great interest due to different properties such as the low band gap (which lies in the UV region) and non-toxicity as compared to other metal nanoparticles. Use of poisonous chemicals or physical and chemical methods has been increased; therefore, the green approach has been plants, bacteria, viruses, fungi and other biomolecules preferred for the synthesis of bismuth nanoparticles. This review is focused on the green synthesis rather than chemical synthesis of Bi nanoparticles and their numerous applications including biological (antimicrobial), biomedical (imagining, Drug delivery photothermal therapy and cancer therapy), photocatalytic and hydrogen storage. As review articles often serve as key references for newcomers to the field, this report directs readers to articles showcasing significant advancements in Bi-based nanoparticle research. The objectives of this study include highlighting the non-toxic properties of Bi nanoparticles as effective antimicrobial agents and potential alternatives to antibiotics, outlining the limitations of green synthesis and in-vitro and in-vivo synthesis for Bi-based nanoparticles, comparing the efficiency of Bi-based nanoparticles with other types in various applications, and providing recommendations for future research endeavours.