Greener approach to nanomaterials and their sustainable applications

The integration of 'Green Chemistry' principles into the rapidly evolving field of nanoscience is a necessity for the risk reduction. Several 'greener' pathways have been developed to generate nanoparticles in the matrix in which they are to be used thus reducing the exposure risk during handling. The use of naturally occurring biodegradable materials, such as vitamins, sugars, tea or polyphenol-rich agricultural residues, which serve as reducing and capping agents, is demonstrated and may help assist in designing nanomaterials with reduced toxicity. The sustainable use of such green-synthesized nanoparticles in environmental remediation applications and the utility of recyclable magnetic nanoparticles to accomplish nano-catalysis in benign media are highlighted.