Nanotechnology in action: silver nanoparticles for improved eco-friendly remediation

• Published in: PeerJ (San Francisco, CA) Vol. 12; p. e18191
• Main Authors: Krishna, Suresh Babu Naidu, Sheik, Abdul Gaffar, Pillay, Karen, Ahmed Hamza, Manhal, Mohammed Elamir, Mohammed Yagoub, Selim, Samy
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States PeerJ. Ltd 03.10.2024; PeerJ Inc
• Subjects: Antimicrobial activity; Biogenic; Electric properties; Environment; Environmental Contamination and Remediation; Environmental Impacts; Environmental Pollutants - chemistry; Environmental remediation; Environmental Restoration and Remediation - methods; Green Chemistry; Green Chemistry Technology - methods; Innovations; Metal Nanoparticles - chemistry; Metal Nanoparticles - therapeutic use; Methylene blue; Nanoparticles; Nanoscience; Nanotechnology; Nanotechnology - methods; Remediation; Silver; Silver - chemistry; Silver nanoparticles; Nanoscience; Antimicrobial activity; Biogenic; Eco-friendly; Environment; Remediation; Silver nanoparticles
• ISSN: 2167-8359; 2167-8359
• DOI: 10.7717/peerj.18191

Nanotechnology is an exciting area with great potential for use in biotechnology due to the far-reaching effects of nanoscale materials and their size-dependent characteristics. Silver and other metal nanoparticles have attracted a lot of attention lately because of the exceptional optical, electrical, and antimicrobial characteristics they possess. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) stand out due to their cost-effectiveness and abundant presence in the earth’s crust, making them a compelling subject for further exploration. The vital efficacy of silver nanoparticles in addressing environmental concerns is emphasized in this thorough overview that dives into their significance in environmental remediation. Leveraging the distinctive properties of AgNPs, such as their antibacterial and catalytic characteristics, innovative solutions for efficient treatment of pollutants are being developed. The review critically examines the transformative potential of silver nanoparticles, exploring their various applications and promising achievements in enhancing environmental remediation techniques. As environmental defenders, this study advocates for intensified investigation and application of silver nanoparticles. Furthermore, this review aims to assist future investigators in developing more cost-effective and efficient innovations involving AgNPs carrying nanoprobes. These nanoprobes have the potential to detect numerous groups of contaminants simultaneously, with a low limit of detection (LOD) and reliable reproducibility. The goal is to utilize these innovations for environmental remediation purposes.