Silica-based nanomaterials are used in wide applications such as in catalysis, food and drug technology, biomedical materials, water purification, tyres and paints. The industrial production of silica-based nanomaterials often utilises harsh conditions and/or produce toxic wastes. In contrast, biological organisms, through biosilicification, produce elaborate and ordered biominerals under physiological conditions. Taking inspiration from such biosilicifying organisms, we have developed green routes for the controlled synthesis of silica. In this presentation will demonstrate that this biomimetic technology is scalable (suitable for industrial production) with the potential to reform current industrial processes. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that these materials, due to their green synthesis are suitable for applications environmental remediation, catalysis, biocatalysis and drug delivery.

Green chemistry for nanomaterials with applications in biocatalysis, environmental remediation, and drug delivery

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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