Selection of Suitable Biological Method for the Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles

Abstract

This paper aims to present a brief overview of different biosynthesis routes of silver nanoparticles (NPs), their applications and influence of the method used on the size and morphology of these nanoparticles. A detailed and comprehensive study of available biological methods, also referred to as a bottom-up approach, as well as techniques reported, have been provided with an eye for details and comparison between the techniques involving fungi, bacteria, algae and plant extracts. Plant-derived bioreductants such as leaf, stem or root extracts of various plants are seen as suitable solutions to green synthesis of silver NPs, implementing an easy, non-toxic, clean and environmentally friendly approach. Furthermore, reports on the antimicrobial activities with the zone of inhibition for various pathogens have also been included.