A review on plant extracts mediated green synthesis of silica nanoparticles for miscellaneous applications

It is undeniable that conventional processes for producing nanomaterials entail certain environmental and economic challenges. In recent years, the discovery of plant-based green nanomaterials as sustainable alternatives to chemically synthesized nanomaterials has attracted increasing attention of chemistry researchers from educational, engineering and environmental perspectives. This present article systematically focuses on the innovative routes used for the synthesis of green silica nanoparticles using different plant extracts. Among the various methods for synthesizing green nanoparticles, the advantages of utilizing plant extracts as starting material is critically explored in view of simplicity, easy availability and environmental friendliness. A robust emphasis is placed on understanding the role of essential methods related to the characterization of plant extracts-based silica nanoparticles. Finally, the review will provide a detailed account of the current situation and future prospects regarding the miscellaneous applications of plant-derived green silica nanomaterials. The continuous use of plant extracts-mediated silica nanoparticles in diverse modern sectors is a motivating approach to reduce operational costs as well as take a step towards sustainable green chemistry.