Green Synthesis vs Traditional Synthesis: The Battle of the Nanomaterials

Nanomaterials have revolutionized various fields, from medicine to electronics. But how these materials are synthesized can have a significant impact on the environment and human health. Traditional synthesis methods often involve the use of toxic chemicals, which can have adverse effects on the environment and workers. On the other hand, green synthesis methods use eco-friendly and sustainable sources and show promising results in reducing adverse effects. In this blog post, we will compare the two methods and their impact on the environment and human health.

Traditional Synthesis of Nanomaterial

Traditional synthesis methods involve the use of toxic chemicals, such as solvents, surfactants, and reducing agents, which can have adverse effects on the environment and human health. In addition, these methods require high temperatures and pressure, making them energy-intensive and expensive. For example, the most common method of synthesizing silver nanoparticles involves the reduction of silver salts using sodium borohydride, which is a toxic and hazardous material that can cause skin and eye irritation.

Green Synthesis of Nanomaterial

Green synthesis methods use eco-friendly and sustainable sources, such as plant extracts, and show promising results in reducing adverse effects on the environment and human health. These methods are less energy-intensive and less expensive than traditional methods. For example, silver nanoparticles can be synthesized using plant extracts, such as Aloe vera extract, which contains phytochemicals that act as reducing agents. These methods do not require additional reducing agents or stabilizers, making them efficient and safe.

Comparison

Conclusion

While both traditional and green synthesis methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, green synthesis methods are more efficient, less toxic, less energy-intensive, and more eco-friendly than traditional methods. Therefore, it is recommended to adopt green synthesis methods wherever possible to reduce the adverse effects of nanomaterial synthesis on the environment and human health.

References

1. Korbekandi, H., Iravani, S., & Abbasi, S. (2019). Nanotechnology in the safe synthesis and delivery of drugs. In Nanobiomaterials in Galenic Formulations and Cosmetics (pp. 649-674). Elsevier.

2. Thakkar, K. N., Mhatre, S. S., & Parikh, R. Y. (2010). Biological synthesis of metallic nanoparticles. Nanomedicine: Nanotechnology, Biology and Medicine, 6(2), 257-262.

3. Yallappa, S., Manjanna, J., Dhananjaya, B. L., & Sathish Kumar, E. (2018). Green Synthesis of Nanoparticles and Biodegradable Natural Polymers: Their Applications. In Green Synthesis, Characterization and Applications of Nanoparticles (pp. 69-81). Elsevier.