Metal Nanoparticles Produced Using Autotrophs and Their Bioproducts: A Comparative Overview between Photosynthesizing...

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Green Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Metal nanoparticles (MNPs) possess unique properties dependent on size, shape, and uniformity.
• Green synthesis utilizes eco-friendly reducing and stabilizing agents from plant or microorganism extracts.
• Current literature lacks clarity on specific taxonomic groups for targeted MNP production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comparative overview of MNPs synthesized using photosynthesizing organisms.
• To identify patterns and knowledge gaps in green synthesis of MNPs.
• To guide future research for optimizing sustainable nanoparticle production.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of 485 articles.
• Analysis of 652 monometallic and 10 bimetallic nanoparticles.
• Focus on MNPs synthesized using extracts from photosynthesizing organisms.

Main Results:

• Angiosperms and cyanobacteria were the most frequently used taxonomic groups.
• Silver and gold nanoparticles were the most commonly synthesized MNPs.
• Gold nanoparticles were smaller than silver nanoparticles from the same taxonomic groups; antimicrobial activity was the primary application.

Conclusions:

• Photosynthesizing organisms offer a viable route for sustainable MNP synthesis.
• Understanding taxon-specific synthesis can enhance efficiency and precision.
• Further research can optimize MNP production for targeted applications.