Nanoparticles: balancing benefits, ecological risks, and remediation approaches

Nanoparticles are the simplest form of structure, having sizes ranging from 1 to 100 nm and can provide considerably high surface areas through rational design. Their size, shape and structure are responsible for their high reactivity and strength. In the last few decades, nanoparticles have been widely used in many dosage forms due to their excellent solubility, less size and better penetrability. They have attained prominence in various technological advancements because their properties can be tuned as desired via precisely controlling the size, shape, synthesis conditions, and appropriate functionalization. Due to these unique properties, Nanoparticles have acquired a substantial global market in various commercial and domestic applications, including catalysis, imaging, medical applications, sports equipment, sensors, energy-based research, and environmental applications. Due to the increased growth of the production of nanoparticles and their industrial applications, issues relating to toxicity are inevitable. Several reports are available on the benefits of these nanomaterials in various sectors, but relatively more minor literature is available on their effect on the environment and human health. Several heavy metal nanoparticles are reported to be so rigid and stable that their degradation is not readily achievable, leading to much environmental toxicity. This review discusses a brief history, various applications and the possible fate of the Nanoparticles after use. In particular, we describe how Nanoparticles affect the environment, natural resources, natural micro-flora and humankind. It also describes several techniques currently being used to remove nanoparticles.