Biosilica of diatom algae: synthesis, characteristics, modification and application in practical research

The review presents the key results of the study of biosilica obtained from diatoms and its application in various fields of science and technology. The purpose of this review is to systematize data on the properties, modification methods and areas of application of this material. The data on the properties of biosilica are summarized and the main modification methods are considered, which can significantly expand the range of functional characteristics of this material. Particular attention is paid to the use of unmodified and modified biosilica in biomedicine as nanocouriers of drugs, materials for tissue regeneration, treatment of infected wounds, as well as biosensors and matrices for SERS analysis. Data on its effectiveness in environmental studies, such as wastewater treatment from heavy metals, organic dyes and phenols, are presented. New promising areas of application of biosilica are separately considered, including its use in energy, chromatographic analysis and other innovative areas. The review summarizes modern data and emphasizes the importance of developing new modification methods to expand the functionality of this unique material.