Bacterial nano-factories as a tool for the biosynthesis of TiO₂ nanoparticles: characterization and potential...

The development of reliable and eco-conscious processes for nanoparticle synthesis constitutes a significant element in nanotechnology. TiO₂ nanoparticles (NPs) are becoming essential due to their potential uses in dentistry, surgery, agriculture, and pharmacy. This leads to the development of various procedures for producing TiO₂ NPs using various physicochemical methods. Still, the drawbacks of these conventional methods are associated with the emission of toxic chemicals into the atmosphere and high energy demands in production, hence endangering the health and the environment. Problems issued are solved by green nanotechnology, which offers tools as nano-factories by utilizing biological sources to subside the improper effects of conventional methods and produces nanoparticles through synthesis methods that are clean, safe, energy-efficient, and cost-effective. Among the biogenic sources, microbial cells such as bacteria possess intrinsic pathways of converting metallic salt to nanoparticles due to their ability to produce reductase enzymes. Also, they can offer features to products such as high dispersity and produce sustainable nanoparticles at a large scale. Biosynthesized TiO₂ NPs have high oxidizing potential and a wide range of applications, specifically as photosensitizers and antimicrobial agents. This review will address bacterial nano-factories that can be utilized for the biosynthesis of TiO₂ NPs, the characterization of biosynthesized nanoparticles, and their potential application in wastewater treatment.