Synthesis and Processing of Nanomaterials Mediated by Living Organisms

Abstract

Nanomaterials offer exciting properties and functionalities. However, their production and processing frequently involve complex methods, cumbersome equipment, harsh conditions, and hazardous media. The capability of organisms to accomplish this using mild conditions offers a sustainable, biocompatible, and environmentally friendly alternative. Different nanomaterials such as metal nanoparticles, quantum dots, silica nanostructures, and nanocellulose are being synthesized increasingly through living entities. In addition, the bionanofabrication potential enables also the in situ processing of nanomaterials inside biomatrices with unprecedented outcomes. In this Minireview we present a critical state‐of‐the‐art vision of current nanofabrication approaches mediated by living entities (ranging from unicellular to higher organisms), in order to expand this knowledge and scrutinize future prospects. An efficient interfacial interaction at the nanoscale by green means is within reach through this approach.

Understanding Biomineralization Mechanisms to Produce Size-Controlled, Tailored Nanocrystals for Optoelectronic and Catalytic Applications: A Review

“…Typically, living organisms employ biomineralization for protection, structural support, and directional orientation; examples include seashells, bones, and magnetic particles . Biomineralization can also be utilized outside of its original context and applied for the synthesis of functional materials, ranging from metal nanoparticle catalysts to semiconductor quantum dots. − The synthetic production of nanoparticles as inspired by biomineralization is sometimes known as biomimetic, − biodirected, − biofabrication, biotransformation, bioprecipitation, or biogenic − particle syntheses; however, broadly the term biomineralization remains common. Because biomineralization typically takes place in living organisms, the biological pathways used for functional nanomaterial synthesis occur under ambient temperatures and pressures in the aqueous phase.…”

Microalgae–material hybrid for enhanced photosynthetic energy conversion: a promising path towards carbon neutrality

“…In nature, organisms can form organic–inorganic composite materials with complex structures and excellent biological properties through biomineralization, such as bones, teeth and shells [ 11 , 12 ]. These biomaterials have a highly ordered hierarchical structure from nanoscale to macroscale, which can provide organisms with functions such as mechanical support, protection, movement and signal sensing [ 12–15 ].…”

“…In nature, organisms can form organic–inorganic composite materials with complex structures and excellent biological properties through biomineralization, such as bones, teeth and shells [ 11 , 12 ]. These biomaterials have a highly ordered hierarchical structure from nanoscale to macroscale, which can provide organisms with functions such as mechanical support, protection, movement and signal sensing [ 12–15 ]. For example, diatoms can use silicate in the environment to form a finely structured silica shell on the cell surface, which can provide them with mechanical protection, photonic crystals and pH buffers [ 16 , 17 ].…”

Statistical analysis of experimental factors for synthesis of copper oxide and tin oxide for antibacterial applications

“…The advancements in the field of nanochemistry and the synthesis of nanoparticles in diminishing dimensions was reviewed by Calvo [27] . The review highlights the importance of optimizing the synthesis conditions to obtain desired nanoparticle properties.…”