Synthesis of nanoparticles utilizing sources from the mangrove environment and their potential applications: An overview

Abstract

Nanotechnology has evolved into an important branch of science, with advancements taking place in different areas of research and implementation. It is a diverse field that encompasses multiple technologies covering various forms of engineering, chemicals, and physical sciences. The science of nanotechnology has led to the synthesis of biological substances such as nanocapsules, nanomaterials, nanosensors or nanodetectors, nanochips, quantum dots, nanocrystals, etc., with an upsurge in applications. Nanomaterials have been synthesized using different physical, chemical, and biological processes, but biological synthesis has achieved priority owing to its ecofriendly nature and easily available resources. Biological sources of nanoparticles comprise different macroorganisms and microorganisms, such as plants, bacteria, fungi, algae, and seaweed. The mangrove ecosystem is one of the toughest on Earth, and plants in such conditions are known to contain abundant secondary metabolites. Studies have shown that mangroves can be a potential cradle of nanoparticles, with wide applications in fields such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and chemical engineering, but there is a paucity of research on mangrove plants and the valuable resources in their ecosystem. The chapter highlights the importance of mangroves as a source for synthesis of nanomaterials and their potential applications in various fields. © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.