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Recent Research on Green Nanotechnology and Environmental Sustainability

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A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Environmental Sustainability and Applications".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (7 November 2023) | Viewed by 36806

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Rakesh Bhaskar

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Guest Editor

School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan-si 38541, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
Interests: tissue engineering; nanoparticles; stem cell; biopolymer; toxicology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Kannan Badri Narayanan

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Guest Editor

School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan-si 38541, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
Interests: nanobiotechnology; tissue engineering; nanomaterials; nanofabrication; microbiology; molecular biology; protein chemistry
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

In an effort to achieve economic growth, countries across the globe are rapidly depleting their limited natural resources to be used as inputs to produce goods and services. Such overexploitation of non-renewable resources has led to complex environmental problems such as global warming and environmental deterioration, as well as health risks. Nanotechnology has greatly impacted modern science and technology, and the development of 'cleaner' and 'greener' nanotechnologies in the areas of nanomaterials, biomaterials, environmental remediation, and catalysis can significantly improve health and provide environmental benefits. Environmental sustainability is required to conserve natural resources and protect global ecosystems for humankind. For this Special Issue, entitled “Recent Research Progress on Green Nanotechnology and Environmental Sustainability”, we invite authors to submit original research papers and review articles on a breadth of topics related to eco-friendly, greener, and/or sustainable methodologies in nanotechnology and environmental sustainability.

Below are a few suggested topics pertaining to green nanotechnology and environmental sustainability, but additional topics are also welcome.

The green synthesis of nanoparticles/nanocomposites;
Green nanotechnology for environmental remediation;
Green biomaterials for tissue engineering;
The sustainable fabrication of novel nanomaterials;
The sustainable production of biopolymers;
The bioconversion of e-wastes to value-added materials;
The environmental and health implications of microplastics ;
Biomass and catalysis.

Dr. Rakesh Bhaskar
Dr. Kannan Badri Narayanan
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

nanoparticles
nanocomposites
green synthesis
tissue engineering
microplastics
sustainable fabrication
catalysis and biomass

Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

16 pages, 8397 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Cytocompatibility Assessment of Novel 3D Chitin/Glucan- and Cellulose-Based Decellularized Scaffolds for Skin Tissue Engineering

by Kannan Badri Narayanan, Rakesh Bhaskar, Hyunjin Kim and Sung Soo Han

Sustainability 2023, 15(21), 15618; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152115618 - 4 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1175

Abstract

Background: Naturally derived sustainable biomaterials with high flexibility, mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and the ability to manipulate surface chemistry, providing a natural cellular environment, can be used for tissue engineering applications. However, only a few researchers have demonstrated the exploitation of natural architectures for constructing three-dimensional scaffolds. The chemical decellularization technique for fabricating natural scaffolds and their cytocompatibility assessment for tissue engineering applications need to be thoroughly explored and evaluated. Methods: Decellularization of natural scaffolds has been performed via a chemical method using anionic detergent sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) which was used for the in vitro culturing of murine embryonic NIH/3T3 fibroblasts. Techniques such as field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), compressive testing and swelling ratio, and biodegradation were performed to characterize the properties of fabricated decellularized natural scaffolds. Nucleic acid quantification, DAPI, and H&E staining were performed to confirm the removal of nuclear components. In vitro cytocompatibility and live/dead staining assays were performed to evaluate cultured fibroblasts’ metabolic activity and qualitative visualization. Results: 3D chitin/glucan- and cellulose-based scaffolds from edible mushroom (stem) (DMS) and unripe jujube fruit tissue (DUJF) were fabricated using the chemical decellularization technique. FE-SEM shows anisotropic microchannels of highly microporous structures for DMS and isotropic and uniformly arranged microporous structures with shallow cell cavities for DUJF. Both scaffolds exhibited good mechanical properties for skin tissue engineering and DUJF showed a higher compressive strength (200 kPa) than DMS (88.3 kPa). It was shown that the DUJF scaffold had a greater swelling capacity than the DMS scaffold under physiological conditions. At 28 days of incubation, DUJF and DMS displayed approximately 14.97 and 15.06% biodegradation, respectively. In addition, DUJF had greater compressive strength than DMS. Compared to DMS scaffolds, which had a compressive stress of 0.088 MPa at a 74.2% strain, the DUJF scaffolds had a greater compressive strength of 0.203 MPa at a 73.6% strain. The removal of nuclear DNA in the decellularized scaffolds was confirmed via nucleic acid quantification, DAPI, and H&E staining. Furthermore, both of these scaffolds showed good adherence, proliferation, and migration of fibroblasts. DMS showed better biocompatibility and high viability of cells than DUJF. Conclusions: This sustainable scaffold fabrication strategy is an alternative to conventional synthetic approaches for the in vitro 3D culture of mammalian cells for various tissue engineering and cultured meat applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Green Nanotechnology and Environmental Sustainability)

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14 pages, 2779 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Synthesis of Silver and Titanium Oxide Nanoparticles Using Tea and Eggshell Wastes, Their Characterization, and Biocompatibility Evaluation

by Jamila S. Al Malki, Nahed Ahmed Hussien, Lamia M. Akkad, Shatha O. Al Thurmani and Anhal E. Al Motiri

Sustainability 2023, 15(15), 11858; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151511858 - 1 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1386

Abstract

Using biodegradable wastes represents a viable alternative to creating a sustainable economy that benefits all humans. The present study aimed to use daily used waste products, tea (TE) and eggshell (ES) wastes, to synthesize silver (AgNPs) and titanium oxide (TiO₂NPs) nanoparticles, respectively. Firstly, the green-synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer (UV-VIS), Scanning (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), Dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Then, followed by their cytotoxic assessment against normal human skin fibroblast (HSF) cells using sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay, AgNPs_TE (300 and 470 nm) and TiO₂NPs_ESE (320 nm) formation was confirmed using UV-vis spectra. SEM and XRD showed their crystalline shape. TEM images determined the nano-size of AgNPs_TE (25 nm) and TiO₂NPs_ESE (120 nm), which appeared smaller in comparison with DLS analysis (299.8 and 742.9 nm), with zeta potentials of −20.5 mV and −12.6 mV, respectively. There was a great difference in both NPs’ sizes using TEM and DLS measurements because DLS is known to be more sensitive to larger particles due to their light scattering. FTIR detected the functional groups found in TE and ESE that were responsible for the synthesis, capping, and stabilization of the synthesized AgNPs and TiO₂NPs. The SRB assay reveals the safety of TiO₂NPs on normal HSF cells with an IC50 > 100, while AgNPs have a high cytotoxic effect with an IC50 = 54.99 μg/mL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Green Nanotechnology and Environmental Sustainability)

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13 pages, 3423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Banana Peel and Date Seed Extracts, Characterization, and Cytotoxicity Evaluation

by Nahed Ahmed Hussien, Jamila S. Al Malki, Farah A. R. Al Harthy, Asrar W. Mazi and Jumanh A. A. Al Shadadi

Sustainability 2023, 15(13), 9864; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15139864 - 21 Jun 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2569

Abstract

This study describes the use of banana peel (BPEs) and date seed extracts (DSEs) as waste products in the sustainable and eco-friendly biological synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs). ZnONPs_BPE and ZnONPs_DSE were characterized using an ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer (UV-VIS), Scanning (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential analysis, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Moreover, the biocompatibility of ZnONPs was analyzed against the normal human skin fibroblast (HSF) cell line. Peaks of UV spectra were 300 nm and 400 nm for ZnONPs-BPE and for ZnONP _DSE, respectively, confirming the ZnONPs’ formation. XRD revealed their hexagonal structure. SEM showed the nanocrystals of ZnONPs_BPE, which are interlinked to one another in a uniform shape, while ZnONPs_DSE appear as large and small chunky crystals. The mean size of ZnONPs_BPE and ZnONPs_DSE was 50 nm and 62 nm using TEM, respectively. On the contrary, their mean size was bigger using DLS with the zeta potential of ZnONPs_BPE = −12.7 mV and ZnONPs_DSE = −5.69 mV. The FTIR analysis demonstrated the presence of carboxyl, hydroxyl, and C–H of cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin polymers on ZnONPs surfaces that act as reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents. ZnONPs_BPE (IC50 > 100) have lower cytotoxic effects on HSF cells than ZnONPs_DSE (IC50 = 29.34 μg/mL). The present study indicates the successful synthesis of ZnONPs using agro-wastes that could help in waste management and recycling. Furthermore, ZnONPs_BPE is safe to use for further applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Green Nanotechnology and Environmental Sustainability)

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12 pages, 2842 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antimicrobial Potential of Biosynthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Banana Peel and Date Seeds Extracts

by Nahed Ahmed Hussien

Sustainability 2023, 15(11), 9048; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15119048 - 3 Jun 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1909

Abstract

In the present study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were eco-friendly synthesized using banana peel (BPE) and date seed (DSE) extracts. Biosynthesis of both ZnONPs_BPE and ZnONPs_DSE was confirmed by using an ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometer (UV–VIS), then followed by their characterization using different analyses: scanning (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), zeta potential analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The antimicrobial potency of ZnONPs_BPE and ZnONPs_DSE was evaluated using a broth microdilution assay against pathogenic strains to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). UV spectra confirm the formation of ZnONPs-BPE (290 nm) and ZnONP_DSE (400 nm). TEM, SEM, and XRD revealed their hexagonal crystalline structures with nanoscale size ZnONPs_BPE (57.4 ± 13.8 nm, −9.62 mV) and ZnONPs_DSE (72.6 ± 17.1 nm, −5.69 mV). FTIR analysis demonstrated the presence of various functional groups on ZnONPs’ surfaces that act as reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents. The biosynthesized ZnONPs demonstrated a good antimicrobial potential against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Salmonella enteritidis) strains. Especially, ZnONPs-BPE has a higher antimicrobial effect against Salmonella enteritidis (MIC = 0.75 mg/mL, MBC = 1.5 mg/mL), while ZnONP_DSE has a higher effect against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 0.75 mg/mL, MBC = 3 mg/mL). The present results are consistent with previous studies that reported the antimicrobial potential of green ZnONPs through ROS induction that in turn damages microbial DNA. Consequently, the present results support the use of different biowastes in NPs’ synthesis, which is a simple and sustainable way that helps with waste management and decreases environmental pollution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Green Nanotechnology and Environmental Sustainability)

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21 pages, 3930 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Particle-Size Effect of Nanoparticles on the Thermal Performance of Solar Flat Plate Technology

by Humphrey Adun, Michael Adedeji, Ayomide Titus, Joakim James Mangai and Tonderai Ruwa

Sustainability 2023, 15(6), 5271; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065271 - 16 Mar 2023

Viewed by 1434

Abstract

One of the cleanest and most efficient solar collector systems is the flat plate collector, which has applications in hot water production, drying, among others. Flat plate collectors have improved in terms of both their structural configurations and working fluids. Several studies have verified the comparatively higher efficiency of nanofluid-based flat plate collectors, relative to that of water and other thermal oils. Additionally, the influence of several nanofluid synthesis factors, such as volume fraction, pH, type of base fluid, hybridization, surfactants, and sonification, on the performance of these collectors has been highlighted in the literature. However, the effect of nanoparticle size on collector performance has received minimal research interest, despite its significant effect on both the cost of synthesis and the thermophysical properties of nanofluids. The uncertainties regarding the effect of nanoparticle size on thermal collectors have limited their practical applications. This study numerically investigates the effect of the nanoparticle size of silver (Ag) nanofluid with nanoparticle sizes between 20 nm and 100 nm on the performance of flat plate collectors. The effect of nanoparticle size on the mean fluid temperature resulted in a maximum temperature of 45.8 °C for the Ag-100 nm. An increase of 0.25 °C for the Ag-20 nm was recorded, relative to the Ag-100 nm. In addition, the Ag-100 nm was calculated to have resulted in the highest reduction in collector size (18.30%), relative to that of water. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Green Nanotechnology and Environmental Sustainability)

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Review

Jump to: Research

40 pages, 3007 KiB

Open AccessReview

Current Knowledge, Research Progress, and Future Prospects of Phyto-Synthesized Nanoparticles Interactions with Food Crops under Induced Drought Stress

by Abdul Wahab, Farwa Batool, Murad Muhammad, Wajid Zaman, Rafid Magid Mikhlef and Muhammad Naeem

Sustainability 2023, 15(20), 14792; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152014792 - 12 Oct 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2351

Abstract

Drought stress threatens global food security and requires creative agricultural solutions. Recently, phyto-synthesized nanoparticles NPs have garnered attention as a way to reduce food crop drought. This extensive research examines how phyto-synthesized NPs improve crop growth and biochemistry in drought-stressed situations. The review begins with an introduction highlighting the urgency of addressing the agricultural challenges posed by drought. It also highlights the significance of nanoparticles synthesized from photosynthesis in this context. Its purpose is to underscore the importance of sustainable farming practices. This approach is contrasted with conventional methods, elucidating the ecological and economic advantages of phyto-synthesized NPs. This review discusses phyto-synthesized nanoparticles, including titanium dioxide, iron oxide, gold, silver, and copper. In addition, we review their ability to enhance crop growth and stress resistance. The primary focus is to elucidate the effects of phyto-synthesized NPs on plant development under drought stress. Noteworthy outcomes encompass improvements in seed germination, seedling growth, water absorption, photosynthesis, chlorophyll content, the activation of antioxidant defense mechanisms, and the modulation of hormonal responses. These results underscore the potential of phyto-synthesized NPs as agents for enhancing growth and mitigating stress. The review assesses the risks and challenges of using phyto-synthesized NPs in agriculture. Considerations include non-target organisms, soil, and environmental impacts. Further research is needed to determine the long-term effects, dangers, and benefits of phyto-synthesized NPs. Nanoparticles offer a targeted and sustainable approach for improving plant drought tolerance, outpacing traditional methods in ethics and ecological balance. Their mechanisms range from nutrient delivery to molecular regulation. However, the long-term environmental impact remains understudied. This review is critical for identifying research gaps and advancing sustainable agricultural practices amid global water scarcity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Green Nanotechnology and Environmental Sustainability)

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26 pages, 3887 KiB

Open AccessReview

Microplastics in Aquatic and Food Ecosystems: Remediation Coupled with Circular Economy Solutions to Create Resource from Waste

by Sunny Dhiman, Chhavi Sharma, Anu Kumar, Puneet Pathak and Shiv Dutt Purohit

Sustainability 2023, 15(19), 14184; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151914184 - 25 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2009

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) less than 5 mm in dimension are progressively becoming persistent in aquatic and food ecosystems and are a global concern. Microbeads (less than 1 mm) used in household cleaners, cosmetics, and apparel washing are the primary source, followed by secondary sources including broken-down plastic litter and waste. They are ingested by a range of aquatic animals, including zooplankton, crustaceans, and fish, and can enter human food chains in a variety of manners. Thus, microplastic pollution poses a detrimental effect on the overall ecological balance, including the aquatic ecosystem, food safety, and human health. Strategies such as microbial enzymes/biofilms and nanotechnology-based solutions to MPs biodegradation, the usage of substitute materials such as biodegradable plastics, and source reduction could be employed to mitigate microplastic pollution. In addition, the implementation of plastic waste into the circular economy, for example by applying the reduce, recycle, and reuse approach, could potentially serve as a sustainable solution to abate the adverse effects of plastics. Thus, plastic waste could contribute to a sustainable circular and climate-neutral economy as a result of its durability and recyclability. This review presents a comprehensive report on microplastic management and transformation strategies, reflecting bioremediation coupled with circular economy-based solutions to microplastic pollution. It also highlights future recommendations to stakeholders and for governmental policies for the reduction of plastic pollution by potentially utilizing plastic waste in a circular economy to generate wealth from waste. Overall, this article provides an exhaustive and essential overview of microplastic treatment procedures and their role in the circular economy, where plastic waste generated by aquatic and food-based ecosystems might possibly be managed and re-utilized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Green Nanotechnology and Environmental Sustainability)

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17 pages, 1051 KiB

Open AccessReview

Microplastics as an Emerging Threat to the Global Environment and Human Health

by Shampa Ghosh, Jitendra Kumar Sinha, Soumya Ghosh, Kshitij Vashisth, Sungsoo Han and Rakesh Bhaskar

Sustainability 2023, 15(14), 10821; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151410821 - 10 Jul 2023

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 22756

Abstract

In recent years, there has been mounting concern about the bearing of microplastics on human health and the comprehensive natural environment. These particles come from a variety of sources, such as soaps, personal care products, and the rundown of bigger plastic items. The impacts of microplastics on marine life and other ecosystems are substantial, including ingestion by marine animals, interference with their reproductive systems, and even death. The economic implications of microplastics are also significant, with industries, such as fishing and tourism being affected by the presence of microplastics in the environment. Exposure to microplastics can also pose potential health risks to humans, including respiratory and digestive problems, as well as disrupt sleep, contribute to obesity, and increase the risk of diabetes. To address this issue, policies and initiatives have been put in place to reduce microplastic pollution, but there are challenges that need to be overcome, such as lack of awareness, limited resources, and ineffective regulations. Further research is also needed to fully understand the impacts of microplastics on our health and to develop effective strategies to mitigate the problem. In this article, we have discussed the requirement of a multifaceted approach including reducing plastic use, promoting proper disposal and recycling of plastic waste, developing innovative technologies for capturing and removing microplastics from the environment, raising public awareness, and implementing effective regulations and policies. It is only through concerted efforts and collaboration between individuals, industries, and governments that the threat of microplastics can be tackled. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Green Nanotechnology and Environmental Sustainability)

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