Nanomaterials: Classification, Biological Synthesis and Characterization

Abstract

Nanomaterial research has recently gained importance due to prospective applications in human life and environment. However, scientific research on nano- and micro-sized materials has reached a saturation state. As a result, researchers planning to further develop nanomaterials, need an outlook on recent advances in synthesis, classification and characterization of nanomaterials. There is a need in particular for an overview of synthesis using biological materials namely bacteria, fungi, yeast, and plants, in order to design eco-friendly nanomaterials. Methods used to characterize these synthesized nanoparticles must also be reviewed to suggest the appropriate techniques in terms of spectroscopic and microscopic methods to study the physio-chemical properties of nanomaterials. Here we review the nature, types and synthesis of nanomaterials, with a detailed evaluation on biological synthesis. We also discuss in detail nanoparticle production by microorganisms including bacteria, fungi and yeasts. This chapter also provides updates on currently available techniques used to characterize nanoparticles.