Nano LIFE

This research work explores the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Quassia indica (QI-Ag NPs), a natural plant extract, as a stabilizing and reducing agent. The synthesized QI-Ag NPs were characterized using various analytical techniques, including UV-Visible spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM) and Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED). The UV-Visible analysis revealed a characteristic peak at 430 nm, indicating the successful formation of AgNPs. XRD analysis unveiled the crystalline nature of the nanoparticles, with four distinctive peaks corresponding to the silver crystallographic planes. SEM and EDX provided insights into the morphology and chemical composition of the QI-AgNPs. Moreover, TEM and SAED elucidated the structural attributes and crystallinity of the nanoparticles. The Ag NPs exhibited a spherical structure and crystalline nature, as supported by both SAED and XRD findings. The zeta potential of QI-Ag NPs exhibited a value of −24.2 mV. The synthesized QI-Ag NPs were evaluated for their photocatalytic potential, demonstrating a remarkable 97% degradation of Crystal Violet dye. Furthermore, comprehensive studies encompassing antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxicity assessments were conducted, showcasing the multifaceted applications of these nanoparticles. This research underscores the promising potential of Q. indica-mediated silver nanoparticles as environmentally benign and versatile nanomaterials.

Synthesis of TiO₂ nanoparticles by aqueous leaf extract of Gossypium (Gossypium arboretum) leaves on meta titanic acid [TiO(OH)₂]. Rutile tetragonal TiO₂ nanoparticles were characterized by XRD, SEM and TEM studies and their particle size was calculated, which was below 100 nm. The Obtained TiO₂NPs were used as catalysts in the transesterification of Gossypium seed oil, which enhanced the rate of reaction. Thus, it is a very attractive catalyst for biodiesel production from Gossypium seed oil. The effect of the amount of nano-TiO₂ catalyst and microwave heating was studied. In this study, the preparation of both catalyst and biodiesel from the parts of the same Gossypium plant and the feasibility of carrying out the microwave-assisted transesterification (green process) of Gossypium seed oil by using biogenic nanoTiO₂ catalyst was explored. They improve the efficiency of transesterification. The used catalyst can be recycled by simple filtration and reused without reduction in its activity. It is a green method (affords nontoxic and noncorrosive medium), clean reaction, simple experimental, isolation procedures, gives high yield and the properties of synthesized biodiesel are in good agreement with that of diesel oil. So, it may be used alone or by blending with diesel.

The ubiquitous presence of micro and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the environment has become a pressing global concern, particularly regarding the potential impacts on human health. This review underscores the urgent need for an integrative research framework that bridges the gap between epidemiological observations and toxicological insights. Human exposure to MNPs occurs predominantly through ingestion, inhalation and dermal contact pathways. Epidemiological findings have consistently demonstrated the presence of MNPs in diverse human tissues, signaling a broad exposure and emphasizing the imperative to explore potential health risks. Population surveys have shown that the concentration of MNPs in the feces of people using disposable plastic tableware reaches 24.65 items/g. These results are associated with changes in microbiota composition and metabolite levels relevant to central nervous system disorders, energy metabolism and inflammatory responses. The detectable abundance of MNPs in the nasal mucus of individuals wearing N95 masks was measured to be 10.6 ± 2.3 items/mg. Moreover, population- based studies have linked MNP exposure to adverse health outcomes, suggesting correlation relationships between exposure levels and specific diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and human pulmonary ground-glass nodules (GGN). These associations underscore the necessity for in-depth toxicological investigations to elucidate the toxicity mechanisms of MNPs. Meanwhile, laboratory-based toxicological studies have the potential to reveal causative relationships and various in vitro and in vivo models have been used to explore the mechanisms of the toxicity of MNPs in the gastrointestinal tract, lungs and cardiovascular system. However, early studies failed to reflect on the complexity of the real environment. To foster interdisciplinary collaborations, this paper aims to reconcile the disparities between exposure risks and human health impacts. By critically reviewing recent advancements in understanding the exposure risks of MNPs, epidemiological observations and organ-specific toxicity, this work furnishes a comprehensive perspective on the health implications of MNPs.

Nanotechnology, a significant technological advancement in the current century, has brought about revolutionary changes in numerous fields by manipulating matter at the nanoscale. This review paper examines the various applications of nanoparticles in the concrete industry, emphasizing their potential to improve mechanical qualities, thermal performance and sustainability. This study investigates multiple synthesis strategies, such as grafting, sol–gel, chemical and biological procedures, which offer concrete engineers a diverse range of options to tailor the properties of nanoparticles. The utilization of this particular material results in notable enhancements in many mechanical properties of concrete, including its compressive and flexural strength, toughness, thermal conductivity and self-sensing capabilities. These improvements ultimately contribute to the overall enhancement of the concrete’s structural integrity and energy efficiency. Adding nanoparticles to concrete has also been shown to help it develop self-healing properties. This means that structures last longer and require less maintenance. Making building materials more resistant to chemical corrosion, wear and environmental forces is also a big step in making them last longer. The growing emphasis on sustainability within the building industry has generated heightened attention toward utilizing self-healing concrete, which frequently incorporates nanoparticles. To make the building industry more environmentally friendly, using less traditional cement and recycling personal safety equipment (PPE) like vinyl and latex gloves can help protect the environment. This review also highlights the significant problems in employing nanoparticles in concrete: obtaining equal dispersion, handling-costs and addressing environmental and health concerns. However, nanotechnology is advancing construction concrete research to improve mechanical properties and durability.

This review study examines the various possible applications of nanowires (NWs) across multiple fields, highlighting their unique optical, electrical, and mechanical properties. NWs, due to their elongated structure and high aspect ratio, are highly useful in many industries including electronics, pharmaceuticals, chemical detection, energy storage, and energy conversion. The research explores fundamental methods for synthesis and integration, including vapor–liquid–solid growth and template-assisted processes. Additionally, it examines methods for modifying attributes through the manipulation of composition. NWs are considered intriguing building blocks for cutting-edge electronics, showcasing benefits in high-frequency components, thermoelectric devices, photovoltaic cells, and flexible light-emitting diodes. The research emphasizes the wide array of potential uses for NW arrays in very sensitive sensing, particularly in integrating these arrays into small, energy-efficient sensors for diverse measurements. Furthermore, NWs demonstrate promise in energy harvesting, photovoltaics, and self-powered devices. The research focuses on overcoming challenges related to the ability to produce NWs on a large scale, ensuring consistent material quality, and addressing issues related to the compatibility of NWs with biological systems. It emphasizes the need for collaboration between different fields of study to fully utilize the promise of NWs in electronics, energy, and biomedicine. Despite these challenges, NWs’ adaptable properties and significant size make them well-suited to revolutionize multiple industries, enabling the advancement of flexible electronics, point-of-care diagnostics, efficient solar cells, and immersive virtual reality.