Green synthesis: Properties and potential applications in nanomaterials and biomass nanocomposites

Abstract

Development of green processes for nanotechnology is of great importance for broadening and improving the industrial applications of nanomaterials and nanocomposites. This chapter focuses on the recent developments in green synthesis, its properties, and its potential applications in nanomaterials and biomass nanocomposites. Among the various green processes for nanotechnology, we pay more attention to the microwave-assisted method, which has been accepted as a promising green methodology in the synthesis of nanomaterials and nanocomposites. Undoubtedly, the microwave-assisted method conforms to the principles of green chemistry such as “ minimize the use of solvents and other auxiliary substances ” and “ minimize energy use ” due to its characteristics of reduced energy consumption, reduced pollution, shorter reaction time, and higher product yield. In recent years, rapid progress has been made in the preparation of nanomaterials and nanocomposites by a microwave-assisted method. In this chapter, the green microwave-assisted synthesis of various nanomaterials including metal nanomaterials, metal oxides nanomaterials, metal chalcogenides nanomaterials, bio- nanomaterials, nanocomposites, and biomass nanocomposites is reviewed. Some typical examples by our research group and by other groups are introduced, which would favor the understanding of the green microwave processes for nanotechnology. Finally, we propose the future perspectives of this green methodology for the fabrication of nanomaterials and nanocomposites.