A Review of Different Synthesis Approaches to Nanoparticles: Bibliometric Profile

Abstract

Nanomaterials are currently one of the most popular emerging materials used in different applications such as drug delivery, water treatment, cancer treatment, electronic, food preservations, and production of pesticide. This is due to their interesting features including size-dependent properties, lightweight, biocompatibility, amphiphilicity and biodegradability. They offer wide possibilities for modification and are used in multiple functions with enormous possibilities. Some of them are medically suitable which has opened new opportunities for medical improvement especially for human health. These characteristics also make nanomaterials one of the pioneers in green materials for various needs, especially in environmental engineering and energy sectors. In this review, several synthesis approaches for nanoparticles mainly physical, chemical, and biological have been discussed extensively. Furthermore, bibliometric analysis on the synthesis of nanoparticles was evaluated. About 117,162 publications were considered, of which 92% are journal publications. RSC Advances is the most published outlet on the synthesis of nanoparticles and China has the highest number of researchers engaged in the synthesis of nanoparticles. It was noted in the evaluation of synthesis approach that biological approach is the savest method but with a low yield, while the chemical approach offers a high yield with some level of hazardous effect. Also, the bibliometric analysis revealed that the field of nanotechnology is a trending and hot ground for research.