A Review on Silver and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles as Antimicrobial Agents in Water Treatment Technologies

Abstract

Metal and metal oxide nanoparticles are active materials used in water treatment technologies. The emergence of these nanomaterials is due to the increasing demand for clean water supply. Among these nanoscale materials, Silver (Ag) and Zinc oxide (ZnO) are famous for having shown good antibacterial properties, essential in water purification technologies. Aside from its pure metal form, its composites have also been explored due to their synergistic effects with some polymeric matrices. Chitosan, for example, is an abundant natural material for its biodegradability, non-toxicity, and water purification properties. In this review, syntheses of Ag and ZnO nanoparticles together with their composites are discussed. Furthermore, its antibacterial properties, along with its water purification efficiencies, are further analyzed. The authors also give an outlook on the possible directions of nanomaterials in water remediation and the inevitable challenges ahead.