An overview on the effect of soil physicochemical properties on the immobilization of biogenic nanoparticles

Abstract

There are various methods available today for the synthesis of biogenic nanoparticles (by plants, algae, yeast, bacteria, fungi and waste material), which, due to their cheapness and environmental effects, are superior to chemical synthesis. Soil microorganisms by the secretion of various substances (such as a variety of enzymes, proteins, amino acids, etc.) play a critical role in the synthesis and bioavailability of biogenic nanoparticles in the soil. Synthesized biogenic nanoparticles, due to their nature as well as their surface properties, can lead to the bioremediation of inorganic and organic contaminants in the soil. Among the physicochemical properties of the soil, pH, organic matter content and clay seem to have the most influence on the distribution and immobilization of soil nanoparticles. These nanoparticles may be accumulated in the soil for various reasons or may be transported to groundwater and lead to contamination in humans, animals, plants and microorganisms. Therefore, it is necessary to understanding the behaviour of nanoparticles in the soil, which influence soil physicochemical properties, and to assessing possibility hazards.