Abstract
Nanometal oxides are used extensively in various industries such as cosmetics, medicine, and food. Because of the increased use of nanoparticles, it is necessary to understand their influence on the environment. In this investigation, we have focused on the ecotoxicological behavior of nano and bulk silica (SiO2) and alumina (Al2O3) particles on plant growth–promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). Nano Al2O3 had shown 15 ± 0.91 mm (Pseudomonas fluorescens), 14 ± 0.53 mm (Bacillus megaterium), 13 ± 0.26 mm (Bacillus brevis), and 16 ± 0.65 mm (Azotobacter vinelandii) zones of inhibition. The influence of nano and bulk particles on soil and its nutrients (total organic carbon, total nitrogen, phosphorus, and available potassium) was also analyzed using standard soil analytical techniques. Our findings showed that nano and bulk SiO2 particles were nontoxic toward PGPR up to 1000 mg L−1 concentration. In addition, bulk Al2O3 particles were less toxic toward PGPR, whereas nano Al2O3 particles were highly toxic at 1000 mg L−1 concentration. Moreover, nano Al2O3 particles led to a decrease in microbial population of the soil, leading to decrease in available forms of nutrients. In addition, this investigation concluded that zeta potential and contact angle have major role in toxicity. Thus, precautions should be taken during disposal and use of such toxic nanomaterials in the soil to prevent their hazardous effects.
Keywords: Ecotoxicity, nanometal oxides, plant growth–promoting rhizobacteria, soil nutrients, total microbial population.
Graphical Abstract
Call for Papers in Thematic Issues
Role of nanomaterials in fabrication of coatings, Machining and Joining
The application of nanoscience has brought about a revolution in the field of mechanical engineering by providing novel materials, boosting manufacturing processes, and generating cutting-edge products. The purpose of this special issue is to investigate the enormous impact that nanoscience has had on mechanical engineering, with a particular emphasis on ...read more
Advanced Inorganic Nanocomposites and Their Emerging Applications
This special issue collection will highlight developments on the recent trends about the synthesis of metal oxides, nanoclusters, biomaterials, 2D nanomaterials, nanocrystals, nanocomposites, etc. and their applications in electrochemical systems, tissue regeneration, energy storage and harvesting, sensors, etc. The novelty of the methods in the chemical synthesis and their characterizations, ...read more
Applicability of Nanotechnology for Performance Enhancement of Clean Energy Technologies
Population growth, industrialization, and improvement in living quality would lead to further increase in energy demand in near future. Regarding the disadvantages of fossil fuels such as fluctuations in their price, high emissions of greenhouse gases and restriction of their sources, it is crucial to use and exploit alternative energy ...read more
Graphene and 2D Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion
This thematic issue will discuss the recent advances in graphene-based nanomaterials for different energy technologies. Graphene possesses a high surface area, and stable structure and exhibits many interesting electronic, optical, and mechanical properties due to its 2D crystal structure. Graphene is of both fundamental interest and suitable for a wide ...read more
Related Books
Nanoscale Field Effect Transistors: Emerging Applications
Nanoelectronics Devices: Design, Materials, and Applications Part II
Nanoelectronics Devices: Design, Materials, and Applications (Part I)
Role of Nanotechnology in Cancer Therapy
Synthesis and Applications of Semiconductor Nanostructures
Pathways to Green Nanomaterials: Plants as Raw Materials, Reducing Agents and Hosts
Applications of Nanomaterials in Medical Procedures and Treatments
Synthesis of Nanomaterials
Nanobiotechnology: Principles and Applications
Bio-Inspired Nanotechnology
22