An overview of bio-assisted nanoparticles: Synthesis, application and challenges in nature's toolbox

Nanomaterials (NMs) are distinct chemical substances that possess an extraordinarily large surface area and exterior dimensions within the nano scale range, specifically between 1 and 100 nanometers. Nano materials are categorized as inorganic NMs, organic NMs, carbon containing NMs, and composite NMs. The comprehensive examination of NMs encompasses a wide range of investigation in the field of nano technology, nano engineering, and nano science. The current imperative is for researchers to synthesize NMs due to it’s huge application in versatile areas. Different materials such as metal oxides, polymeric compounds, semiconductors, ceramics, metals etc.are utilized to synthesize nanostructures by different processes. NMs of different morphology have been synthesized based on the specific synthetic procedure and origin of the materials. Out of the several procedures, biosynthesis, also known as green synthesis or bio-assisted method, is the most environmentally benign, low-toxic and cost-effective procedure. The main aim of this job is to give a brief overview of the different naturally existing NMs, their sources amd different bio-assisted methods with the mechanisms. Three types of biogenic synthesis with the involvement of microorganisms, biomolecules as templates and plant extracts are discussed thoroughly. This review not only examines the synthesis of biogenic nanoparticles but also investigates various applications of these NMs and explores different categorizations of NMs that have been produced by environmentally sustainable techniques. The present article paper examines the underexplored field of NMs and its potential for advancements in near future.