Algal-Mediated TiO₂ Nanoparticles: Sustainable Path for Nanomaterial Synthesis and Environmental Remediation

Abstract

Green methods for generating nanomaterials offer solutions to the various problems associated with the negative effects of traditional physical and chemical processes used for synthesizing nanoparticles. The development of nanomaterials from microorganisms, particularly algal species, has increased significantly in recent years. Algae are ecologically and economically valuable photosynthetic organisms that lack the structure of roots and leaves. Like bacteria and plants, algal bodies contain different biomolecules, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, peptides, alkaloids, terpenoids, cell walls, polysaccharides, and glycoproteins. These biomolecules incorporate functional groups such as carbonyl, hydroxyl, carboxyl, and sulfonate, as well as various enzymes that contribute to the production, reduction, capping, and stabilization of nanomaterials. Different algal species are currently being utilized due to their remarkable ability to bioremediate toxic and hazardous metals, transforming them into less harmful forms. These algal species can synthesize various types of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles. The synthesis of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles using a revolutionary green chemistry approach, which is environmentally friendly, has been explored in the current study. TiO₂ nanoparticles produced from algal species act as antifungal and antibacterial agents, providing solutions for fungal diseases and bacterial infections. Additionally, these nanoparticles can function as photocatalysts in various processes, including wastewater treatment. Studies have shown that TiO₂ nanoparticles are effective antifouling agents. The present review discusses the green synthesis of TiO₂ nanoparticles and its applications.