Green Synthesis of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles: Cutting Edge Technology and Multifaceted Applications

Abstract

Iron oxide nanoparticles (NPs) have garnered immense research impetus in multiple domains over the years. Use of various plants (with compositional abundance of different bioactive components, acting as bioreductants/stabilizers/capping agents) for generation of iron oxide NPs has been one of the focal points of investigation in the realm of green nanotechnology. This chapter is an attempt to make the readers au courant with the research on phytogenesis of iron oxide NPs. The chapter is streamlined towards the discussion of general features of phytomediated preparations of iron oxide NPs, encompassing the exemplary endeavours made during the recent years. Highlights of applications of the phytogenerated iron oxide NPs in the niches of antimicrobial and anticancer therapy, catalysis, metal-ion adsorption and agriculture, amongst others, are presented.