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From Impure to Purified Silver Nanoparticles: Advances and Timeline in Separation Methods
Catarina S M Martins1, Helena B A Sousa1, João A V Prior1
1LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy of University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n°. 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
Nanomaterials (Basel, Switzerland)
|December 24, 2021
Summary
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are increasingly used, posing risks due to unpurified synthesis media. This review evaluates AgNP separation methods for safety and environmental protection.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Environmental Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) exhibit unique properties influenced by size and shape.
- Widespread applications in electronics, medicine, and environmental fields have increased.
- Growing AgNP use heightens human and environmental exposure risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and analyze current separation methods for AgNPs from crude suspensions and real samples.
- To focus on the sustainability and efficiency of these separation techniques.
- To address the risks associated with unpurified AgNPs and their synthesis precursors.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of various AgNP separation techniques.
- Discussion of relevant data on separation efficiency and sustainability.
- Comparative analysis of different purification strategies.
Main Results:
- Various separation techniques exist for AgNPs.
- Sustainability and efficiency vary significantly among methods.
- Incomplete separation leaves hazardous precursors, increasing environmental risk.
Conclusions:
- Effective AgNP separation is crucial for mitigating health and environmental risks.
- Sustainable and efficient separation methods are needed.
- Further research into optimized purification strategies is essential.
