Green Synthesis of Cu/CuO and Ag2O Nanomaterials for Multifunctional Applications

Green routes of synthesis are simple, safe, nontoxic and ecofriendly
methods to synthesize
nanoparticles of various metals and their oxides by the application of bioactive compounds of plants,
algae, fungi, yeast, etc. Green engineered copper and copper oxide nanoparticles (Cu and CuO NPs)
synthesis has been reported to be more economical and best alternative method among available
methods. Cu and CuO NPs have been applied as dietary additives, lubricant supplements, chemical
sensors, coating materials in addition to large number of biotechnological and pharmaceuticals
applications. The present review aims to bring awareness about various aspects of biogenic synthesis
of Cu and its oxide NPs for multifunctional applications and discusses their characterization
techniques and applications in antimicrobial activity evaluation, photocatalysis, organic dye
degradation, biomedical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, energy and catalysis. The photo catalytic
performance of the synthesized nanocrystalline
Ag2O by photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes
under visible light irradiation has also been discussed thoroughly in this review.