Biogenic nanoparticles: synthesis, mechanism, characterization and applications

Abstract Novel physicochemical and biological properties of nanoparticles depend on their size, shape, and morphology which enable them to interact with microbes, plants, and animals. A decade-long research on biogenic nanoparticles have revealed exciting results in biomedical, environmental, and energy storage applications. Green synthesis has emerged as an exciting platform for biofabrication of nanoparticles. Biogenic synthesis provides a simple, economical, and eco-friendly approach for the synthesis of nanoparticles. Different kinds of biological resources can act as green reducing and stabilizing agents for the synthesis of multifunctional nanoparticles or nanocomposite materials. Accumulating evidence suggest the involvement of secondary metabolites, enzymes, and other biological macromolecules in the reduction and stabilization of the nanoparticles. Biogenic metal nanoparticles have revealed impressive results in biomedical, photocatalytic, and energy storage applications. This chapter aims to present a holistic overview of the current research on the biogenic synthesis of nanoparticles with emphasis on their potential applications and future prospects.