Algae: A potential source for nanoparticle synthesis

Abstract

Nanotechnology deals with the particles of diameter size less than 100 nm. Nanoparticles are different from their bulk counterparts due to their distinctive shapes and sizes. They provide larger surface area, essential to carry out different chemical reactions. Other than the physical and chemical methods of nanoparticle synthesis, biological method is getting more popularity, as the process is less toxic, cost effective and eco-friendly. Various biological sources such as algae, plants, bacteria, fungi etc. have been explored for their potential to synthesize nanoparticles. In the literature, algae was found to be more reliable source for the green synthesis of metal nanoparticles as they are readily available in nature and are easy to grow in normal conditions. Metal nanoparticles like gold, silver and iron synthesized from algal source have widespread application in treating environmental pollutants like heavy metal removal, degradation of organic dyes, antimicrobial agents etc.