Themed collection Environmental Science: Nano Recent Review Articles


In vitro-based human toxicity effect factors: challenges and opportunities for nanomaterial impact assessment
Drawing the picture of the opportunities and challenges of using in vitro data to calculate effect factors in LCA.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 1913-1925
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN01014J

Emerging investigator series: perspectives on toxicokinetics of nanoscale plastic debris in organisms
Fragmentation of plastic waste in the environment can lead to the formation of nanoscale plastic debris (NPD) of size < 1 μm.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 1566-1577
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00425E
Carbon nanomaterials and their impact on membrane separation applications
Design, use, and recyclability of carbon nanomaterials in membranes provide new opportunities for advancing separation applications.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 3056-3066
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00263E
What is “Environmentally Relevant”? A framework to advance research on the environmental fate and effects of engineered nanomaterials
FRAME: Framework for Relevance And Methods Evaluation.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 2414-2429
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00162K
Perspectives on palladium-based nanomaterials: green synthesis, ecotoxicity, and risk assessment
By comprehensively analyzing and discussing the application progress, environmental behavior and ecotoxicology of palladium-based nanomaterials (Pd-NMs), guidelines are provided for the sustainable development of Pd-NMs.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 20-36
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0EN01048K
An insight into the role of carbon dots in the agriculture system: a review
CDs in sustainable agricultural production can significantly aid in meeting global food demand while maintaining environmental resilience.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2023,10, 959-995
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00954D
Recent advances in the design of controlled- and sustained-release micro/nanocarriers of pesticide
Diagram of components of controlled- and sustained-release micro/nanocarriers of pesticide: nanomaterials and stimuli-responsive triggers (R stands for different groups).
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2023,10, 351-371
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00446A
2D MXene nanocomposites: electrochemical and biomedical applications
In this review article, key factors about the 2D MXene nanomaterials in electrochemical and biomedical applications have been reviewed and discussed.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 4038-4068
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00527A
Recent advances in the application of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) in environmental remediation: a review
The removal of gases, organics, heavy metals and radionuclides on zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs).
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 4069-4092
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00601D
Manipulation of the halloysite clay nanotube lumen for environmental remediation: a review
The halloysite clay nanotube lumen has shown great application potential in the field of environmental remediation. This relies on delicate manipulation of the clay nanotube lumen and benefits from the unique functionality of the nanotube lumen.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 841-866
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN01032H
Adsorption and desorption mechanism of aromatic VOCs onto porous carbon adsorbents for emission control and resource recovery: recent progress and challenges
This review highlights the characteristics of adsorption and desorption of aromatic VOCs on various PCAs as well as the integrated technologies for emission control and resource recovery of industrial VOC exhaust.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 81-104
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00929J
Strategies for enhancing the perylene diimide photocatalytic degradation activity: method, effect factor, and mechanism
Strategies to improve the photocatalytic activity of PDI are summarized. The system factor and water chemistry affecting the photocatalytic activity for organic pollutant removal are discussed. The stability and future challenges are discussed.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 602-618
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0EN01245A
Interplay of metal-based nanoparticles with plant rhizosphere microenvironment: implications for nanosafety and nano-enabled sustainable agriculture
The development of nanotechnology and the widespread application of metal-based nanoparticles (MNPs) in various consumer products have released a large number of nanoparticles into soil environment, especially agricultural systems.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2023,10, 372-392
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00803C
Environmental routes of virus transmission and the application of nanomaterial-based sensors for virus detection
Many outbreaks of emerging disease (e.g., avian influenza, COVID-19) are enhanced by the environmental dissemination of viruses. Nanotechnology enabled tools have the potential to detect viruses in complex environmental matrices.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2023,10, 393-423
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00600F
Biological effects of AgNPs on crop plants: environmental implications and agricultural applications
The varied use and disposal of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has allowed their presence in reclaimed water and sewage sludge, making them possibly available in agricultural soils.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2023,10, 62-71
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00801G
Nanobiopesticides in sustainable agriculture: developments, challenges, and perspectives
Applications of nanotechnology in biopesticides could achieve controlled release, increase the solubility, and exhibit location targeting and strong compatibility.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2023,10, 41-61
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00605G
Carbon nanomaterial-based membranes for water and wastewater treatment under electrochemical assistance
Carbon nanomaterial-based membranes exhibit fascinating permselectivity for water and wastewater treatment, and their performance could be further improved under electrochemical assistance, benefiting from their good electrical conductivity.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2023,10, 11-40
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00545J
Application of nano-agricultural technology for biotic stress management: mechanisms, optimization, and future perspectives
Nano-agricultural technology is a promising alternative for sustainable control crop biotic stress that has more economic and environmental benefits as compared with conventional analogues.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 4336-4353
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00651K

Graphene-based nanomaterials and microbial communities: a review of their interactions, from ecotoxicology to bioprocess engineering perspectives
This review discusses the interactions between graphene-based nanomaterials and microbial communities in different environmental compartments reconstituted in microcosms, from soil and freshwater to bioprocesses treating waste.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 3725-3741
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00547F
Are nanomaterials leading to more efficient agriculture? Outputs from 2009 to 2022 research metadata analysis
By compiling quantitative information obtained from 1154 publications, the present study aims at offering an overview on how the interaction between nanomaterials & plants has been approached.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 3711-3724
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN01078F
Recent advances on gold and silver nanoparticle-based colorimetric strategies for the detection of different substances and SARS-CoV-2: a comprehensive review
Nanoparticle (NP)-based colorimetric methods are extensively used for the rapid detection of different substances and SARS-CoV-2 in various fields such as environmental science, virology, pollution research, food industry, as well as biomedicine.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 3684-3710
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00503D
Nanomaterials for enhancing photosynthesis: interaction with plant photosystems and scope of nanobionics in agriculture
The complex process of photosynthesis requires precise arrangements of light harvesting molecules in the photosynthetic system.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 3659-3683
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00451H
New insights into the safety assessment of quantum dots: potential release pathways, environmental transformations, and health risks
Potential release pathways, environmental transformations and health risks of QDs.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 3277-3311
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00252C
Construction of adsorbents with graphene and its derivatives for wastewater treatment: a review
A comprehensive and critical overview of graphene-based adsorbents in capturing various water contaminants within the recent five years is presented to drive the rational development of high-performance adsorbents with graphene and its derivatives.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 3226-3276
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00248E
Synchrotron radiation-based analysis of interactions at the nano–bio interface
This review highlights the importance and advantages of synchrotron radiation (SR)-based techniques for revealing the interactions at the nano–bio interface.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 3152-3167
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00408A
Carbon dots derived from natural sources and their biological and environmental impacts
Carbon dots derived from natural sources have drawn tremendous interest due to their superior characteristics. However, it is essential to evaluate both their biological and environmental impacts on contributions and the emerging concerns.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 3206-3225
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00435F
Recent progress in environmental remediation, colloidal behavior and biological effects of MXene: a review
Recent progress in environmental remediation, colloidal behavior and biological effects of MXene was summarized.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 3168-3205
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00340F
Nanocomposite-based high-performance adsorptive water filters: recent advances, limitations, nanotoxicity and environmental implications
Herein, high-performance functional nanomaterials which are demonstrated as efficient adsorbents, membrane materials, and membrane-based water treatment devices are reviewed envisaging simple and scalable water purification technologies.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 2320-2341
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00155A
Chemical degradation kinetics for two-dimensional materials in natural and biological environments – a data-driven review
Many 2D materials undergo chemical degradation in the environment or living systems. This review converts raw literature data into standard kinetic parameters for meta-analysis, and discusses implications for 2D technologies and risk assessment.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 2297-2319
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN01171E

Emerging investigator series: metal nanoparticles in freshwater: transformation, bioavailability and effects on invertebrates
MNPs may undergo different environmental transformations in aquatic systems, consequently changing their mobility, bioavailability and toxicity to freshwater invertebrates.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 2237-2263
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00052K
Advances and challenges of broadband solar absorbers for efficient solar steam generation
This review provides guidance for solar absorber design, selection, and optimization, and evaporation system engineering for efficient solar-driven evaporation.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 2264-2296
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00070A
The potential of nanomaterials for sustainable modern agriculture: present findings and future perspectives
Nanotechnology has received attention in the recent decade due to a plethora of advantages over conventional agriculture techniques, in terms of improved effectiveness, decreased input needs, and lesser environmental toxicity.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 1926-1951
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN01124C
Recent advances in the applications of nanozymes for the efficient detection/removal of organic pollutants: a review
Recent advances in the applications of nanozymes for the efficient detection/removal of organic pollutants.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 1212-1235
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2EN00027J
Toxicological impact of titanium dioxide nanoparticles and food-grade titanium dioxide (E171) on human and environmental health
This review focuses on the correlation between the physico-chemical characteristics of TiO2 nanoparticles, their passage through biological barriers, and the impact of this nanomaterial on human and environmental health.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 1199-1211
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00833A
Boosting CO2 electroreduction towards C2+ products via CO* intermediate manipulation on copper-based catalysts
An overview of the strategies for boosting C2+ selectivity by manipulating CO*(CO).
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 911-953
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00977J
Assessing the environmental effects related to quantum dot structure, function, synthesis and exposure
Quantum dots (QDs) have unique properties, which make them valuable in some commercial technologies. This review discusses the major types and applications of QDs, their potential environmental exposures, fates, and adverse effects on organisms.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 867-910
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00712B

Determination of metallic nanoparticles in biological samples by single particle ICP-MS: a systematic review from sample collection to analysis
A systematic review of the use of single particle ICP-MS to analyse engineered nanomaterials in biological samples has highlighted that efforts have focused on a select few compositions and there is a lack of information for some important tissues.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 420-453
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00680K
Effects of microenvironmental factors on assessing nanoparticle toxicity
Nanoparticles, such as dust or fine particles, are regarded as hazardous materials to human organs, and the interest in understanding their biological mechanisms and cellular response of nanoparticles is growing.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 454-476
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00925G
A critical review on surface-modified nano-catalyst application for the photocatalytic degradation of volatile organic compounds
Surface modified nano-catalysts to improve the performance of photocatalytic degradation of VOC.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 61-80
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00955A
Dimension dependency of tungsten oxide for efficient gas sensing
In this review, the impact of the structure dimensionality and surface morphologies of WO3 for efficient detection of gases such as H2, NH3, H2S, CO, O3, VOCs etc. along with the influence of surface functionalization and doping has been discussed.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 40-60
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00872B
Uptake, translocation, and transformation of silver nanoparticles in plants
This article reviews the plant uptake of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) that occurred in soil systems and the in planta fate of Ag.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2022,9, 12-39
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00870F
Porous materials confining noble metals for the catalytic reduction of nitroaromatics: controllable synthesis and enhanced mechanism
In the field of nanocatalysis, noble metal nanoparticles (NPs) have aroused tremendous attention owing to their superb catalytic efficiency, especially in the catalytic reduction of nitroaromatics.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 3067-3097
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00628B
Advances in nanofluidics for water purification and filtration: molecular dynamics (MD) perspective
Worldwide industrialization and population growth have caused dramatic environmental pollution that has led to a water crisis.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 2120-2151
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00269D
Porous graphitic carbon nitride nanomaterials for water treatment
This review summarizes the application of porous g-C3N4 in water treatment and modification to enhance its catalytic performance, showing the potential of porous g-C3N4 for the actual treatment of water bodies.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 1835-1862
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00171J
Graphdiyne: an emerging two-dimensional (2D) carbon material for environmental remediation
This review highlights recent and important advances related to the structure properties and application of graphdiyne (GDY)-based nanocomposites for environmental remediation.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 1863-1885
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00231G
Transfer and toxicity of silver nanoparticles in the food chain
Biodynamic, in vivo, and omics-based approaches will capture the complex ecological interactions of AgNPs with non-target organisms.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 1519-1535
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0EN01190H
Inorganic nanoparticles as food additives and their influence on the human gut microbiota
The use of various aspects of food processing, including the direct inclusion of nano-additives, are rapidly increasing in the field of nanotechnology to enhance the desired qualities in food production, use and storage.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 1500-1518
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00025J

Insights on toxicity, safe handling and disposal of silica aerogels and amorphous nanoparticles
The toxicity and ecotoxicity effects, handling and disposal of synthetic amorphous silica nanoparticles and aerogels are reviewed and discussed.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 1177-1195
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00026H
Foliar application of nanoparticles: mechanisms of absorption, transfer, and multiple impacts
Foliar spray of NPs is more effective than root/soil application, but potential human exposure and plant toxicity should be addressed.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 1196-1210
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0EN01129K
Removal of antibiotics from aqueous solutions by electrocatalytic degradation
Electrocatalytic degradation of antibiotics.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 1133-1176
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0EN01276A

Critical overview on the green synthesis of carbon quantum dots and their application for cancer therapy
A critical review which delves into the advantages of the use of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) in nano-based cancer therapy, which includes its more positive environmental impact compared to previous systems.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 848-862
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1EN00017A
Recent advances in the application of noble metal nanoparticles in colorimetric sensors for lead ions
Recent developments in nanotechnology and engineering have produced a plethora of nanomaterials with amazing physical/chemical properties and enhanced sensing potential for various heavy metals in the environment.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 863-889
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0EN00963F
The progress of nanomaterials for carbon dioxide capture via the adsorption process
This review article describes the main technologies for CO2 capture, highlights the latest research status of nanomaterials for CO2 capture, and investigates the influence of surface microstructure and modification of materials on CO2 capture.
Environ. Sci.: Nano, 2021,8, 890-912
https://doi.org/10.1039/D0EN01140A
About this collection
In addition to high quality research papers, Environmental Science: Nano features topical review articles. Reviews will be added to this webpage as soon as possible after publication.