Nanomaterials: Classification, Biological Synthesis and Characterization

Abstract

Nanomaterial research has recently gained importance due to prospec- tive applications in human life and environment. However, scientific research on nano- and micro-sized materials has reached a saturation state. As a result, research- ers 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 sug- gest 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 biologi- cal 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. Keywords