Green Synthesis of Nanoparticles Using Plant Extracts and Biopolymers

Nanotechnology has transformed various scientific fields due to the distinctive properties of nanoparticles, yet conventional synthesis methods often rely on toxic chemicals, high energy, and pose environmental risks. This review explores green nanochemistry as a sustainable alternative, emphasizing plant-mediated and biopolymer-assisted synthesis. Phytochemical-rich plant extracts and natural biopolymers such as proteins and polysaccharides act as reducing, stabilizing, and capping agents, enabling controlled nanoparticle formation under mild, eco-friendly conditions. Key processes include reduction, nucleation, growth, and stabilization, influenced by factors like pH, temperature, and reactant concentration. The review covers metallic, metal oxide, and polymer-based nanoparticles, alongside characterization techniques such as UV–Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, SEM/TEM, and DLS. Applications span biomedicine (antimicrobial, anticancer, drug delivery), environmental remediation, and industrial sectors (catalysis, sensing, energy storage). While green synthesis is eco-friendly and cost-effective, challenges include biological variability, lack of standardization, and scale-up limitations. Future directions focus on integrating artificial intelligence and nanobiotechnology for optimized, reproducible, and large-scale nanoparticle production.