Nanoparticles in remediation: strategies and new challenges

Abstract Nanobioremediation is a current technology which significantly contributes to the detoxification of pollutants that are harmful in the environment. Though there have been many bioremediation approaches reported over the decades, the efficiency of this technology is very high and versatile for its application in many industrial processes. Nanoparticles are of different types and, among them, metal nanoparticles are widely utilized for bioremediation of pollutants. The facile synthesis of a nanoparticle is now achieved through plants and microorganisms, leading to sustainable development. This chapter gives an overview of nanoparticles used in bioremediation applications. The chapter also briefly describes the links between remediation and biofuel generation using nanoparticles. It also identifies the research gaps and new challenges in the field of nanotechnology, especially in environment engineering applications.