Open AccessMicrobial synthesis of chalcogenide semiconductor nanoparticles: a review
Author(s) -
Jacob Jaya Mary,
Lens Piet N. L.,
Balakrishnan Raj Mohan
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
microbial biotechnology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.287
H-Index - 74
ISSN - 1751-7915
DOI - 10.1111/1751-7915.12297
Subject(s) - chalcogenide , nanotechnology , chalcogen , semiconductor , nanomaterials , quantum dot , semiconductor materials , environmentally friendly , biochemical engineering , computer science , materials science , chemistry , biology , optoelectronics , engineering , ecology , organic chemistry
Summary Chalcogenide semiconductor quantum dots are emerging as promising nanomaterials due to their size tunable optoelectronic properties. The commercial synthesis and their subsequent integration for practical uses have, however, been contorted largely due to the toxicity and cost issues associated with the present chemical synthesis protocols. Accordingly, there is an immediate need to develop alternative environment‐friendly synthesis procedures. Microbial factories hold immense potential to achieve this objective. Over the past few years, bacteria, fungi and yeasts have been experimented with as eco‐friendly and cost‐effective tools for the biosynthesis of semiconductor quantum dots. This review provides a detailed overview about the production of chalcogen‐based semiconductor quantum particles using the inherent microbial machinery.