Plant-Mediated Synthesis of Zn-Ag Nanocomposites for Multifunctional Wastewater Treatment

The rapid growth of industrialization and urbanization has led to severe contamination of water bodies with various organic and inorganic pollutants. Traditional wastewater treatment methods often fall short due to their high cost, limited efficiency, and secondary pollution. In this context, plant-mediated synthesis of nanomaterials has emerged as a green, cost-effective, and sustainable alternative for environmental remediation. This review highlights recent advances in the plant-based synthesis of zinc-silver (Zn-Ag) nanocomposites, emphasizing their multifunctional roles in wastewater treatment. Plants serve as eco-friendly reducing and stabilizing agents, enabling the fabrication of Zn-Ag nanocomposites without the need for toxic chemicals or high energy inputs. The synergistic interaction between Zn and Ag nanoparticles enhances the physicochemical properties of the nanocomposites, including high surface area, stability, and potent antimicrobial and photocatalytic activities. These features make Zn-Ag nanocomposites highly effective in degrading organic dyes, neutralizing heavy metals, and inactivating pathogenic microorganisms in wastewater. The review further discusses the influence of plant species, synthesis parameters, and nanocomposite characteristics on treatment efficacy. Moreover, it identifies key challenges, such as scalability, standardization, and environmental impact that must be addressed for real-world application. Overall, this review underscores the promising potential of plant-mediated Zn-Ag nanocomposites as a versatile and sustainable solution for integrated wastewater treatment.