Green Synthesis of Metallic Nanoparticles: Methods, Applications, and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as essential components in various fields such as biomedicine, agriculture, environmental science, and industry. Their unique physicochemical properties at the nanoscale enable novel applications ranging from drug delivery and antimicrobial agents to bioremediation and nanocatalysis. Traditional physical and chemical synthesis techniques, though effective, often involve harsh operating conditions and toxic reagents that raise environmental and health concerns.

 Green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) using plants, microorganisms, algae, fungi, and viruses has emerged as a sustainable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective alternative. This review integrates insights from recent literature on green synthesis techniques, characterization methods, key applications, challenges, and future prospects. We emphasize that despite remarkable advances, the translation of green nanotechnology into commercial applications requires standardized protocols, mechanistic understanding, and toxicity evaluations.

Keywords: green synthesis, metal nanoparticles, plant-mediated synthesis, biomedical, agriculture, environment, food application