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

PeerJ. 2024 Oct 3:12:e18191. doi: 10.7717/peerj.18191. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

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.

Keywords: Antimicrobial activity; Biogenic; Eco-friendly; Environment; Nanoscience; Remediation; Silver nanoparticles.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Environmental Pollutants / chemistry
  • Environmental Restoration and Remediation* / methods
  • Green Chemistry Technology / methods
  • Metal Nanoparticles* / chemistry
  • Metal Nanoparticles* / therapeutic use
  • Nanotechnology / methods
  • Silver* / chemistry

Substances

  • Silver
  • Environmental Pollutants

Grants and funding

This work was funded by the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at Jouf University under Grant No. (DGSSR-2023-01-02004). The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.