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The development of environmentally benign methods for the synthesis of nanomaterials has become increasingly relevant as chemists look to shape a more sustainable future. In this critical review, we present current work towards developing alternative methods for synthesizing a wide range of high-quality nanomaterials with predictable and controllable size, shape, composition, morphology and crystallinity. In particular, we focus on the inherent advantages of utilizing porous membrane templates, ultrasonic and microwave irradiation, alternative solvent systems, as well as biologically-inspired reagents as reasonably cost-effective, environmentally responsible methods to generate metal, metal oxide, fluoride, sulfide, selenide and phosphate nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article considers sustainability issues involved in using green nanotechnology. The U.S. previously addressed environmental, health and safety (EHS) issues associated with using nanotechnology in 2006. The result was the emergence of the concept of green nanotechnology, which attempts to produce nanomaterials and products that do not harm the environment or human health, as well as to produce nanoproducts that provide solutions to environmental challenges. A key aspect to achieving these goals is ensuring sustainability in all stages of the life cycle.

gThe article focuses on the challenges and opportunities in the field of nanoscale environmental science and technology. The technical and popular literature is chock-full of discoveries of novel physical, chemical, and biological properties associated with materials whose dimensions are in the nanoscale domain. Insofar as environmental applications are concerned, nanomaterials offer the promise of novel materials and processes exhibiting enhanced reactivity toward targeted contaminants, better mobility in environmental media, and easier deployment.