Trend analysis of reaction parameters and properties of plant-mediated green synthesized selenium nanoparticles using non-parametric statistical methods (Mann–Kendall trend test, Sen's slope estimator, ANOVA) and their applications in the modern world: a critical perspective

Abstract

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have garnered increased interest due to their significant role in human health, including the regulation of blood sugar levels, boosting the immune system, reducing oxidative stress, and other benefits. Conventional synthesis methods of SeNp employ the use of toxic chemicals and solvents, which are harmful to the environment; in contrast, the green synthesis method does not involve the use of any toxic chemicals. In this article, the green synthesis of SeNp using plant extracts, the influence of reaction parameters on their characteristic properties, and the application of SeNp in the present world are discussed. The temperature and stirring speed showed a significant correlation with the particle size and zeta potential, whereby increasing either of these reaction parameters resulted in a decrease in the characteristic properties mentioned. To further confirm the correlation, the Mann–Kendall Trend Test was performed, which confirmed the decreasing trend of particle size and zeta potential with increasing temperature and stirring speed. The volume and concentration of precursor solution and plant extract gave no significant correlation, as different plant extracts comprise different chemical compositions. The polydispersity index (PDI) showed no correlation with any of the reaction parameters due to a lack of adequate data in the literature. Green-synthesised SeNp, owing to its anti-cancer, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and many other biomedically significant properties, is currently emerging as an important material in biomedical applications. They also have applications in electronics, catalysis, and sensors, with significant positive impacts on crops and aquaculture, which are thoroughly discussed in this article.