Plant mediated synthesis of zero valent iron nanoparticles and its application in water treatment

Abstract

For the last twenty more years, the zero valent iron (ZVI) nanoparticles are being investigated for their application in the water pollution remediation. The search for “green” strategies leads to the advancement in the plant-mediated synthesis of ZVI nanoparticles. In this perspective, this article aims to review the synthesis strategies and stabilization methods for ZVI nanoparticles prepared from plants. The reduction and capping/stabilization of nanoparticles using various plant extracts and their bioactive components have been discussed here. The possibility of some of the plant-based stabilizing materials and their mechanism was also highlighted in this review. A special focus is given to the application of phytogenic ZVI nanoparticles on water pollution remediation (heavy metal removal, nitrate and phosphate removal, pharmaceutical products removal, dye removal, organic compounds removal and antimicrobial activity).