Nano-biomaterials in-focus as sensing/detection cues for environmental pollutants

Direct detection of pollutants, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and toxins from waste streams and monitoring of water and soil conditions, are significant challenges in the field of environmental and analytical chemistry. The current techniques implemented for real-time analysis and monitoring of contaminated specimens have been limited due to the lack of tools with broad detection limits and the necessity of expensive laboratory equipment. In this regard, efforts in developing sensing technologies have been put forward during the last years by various research groups. Moreover, cost-effective, compact, and eco-friendly sensors are required. Nanotechnology provides leading biosensors using novel nanofabrication and green synthesis techniques. Nano biosensors utilized for the detection of pollutants exhibit ultra-sensitivity and quick detection time in real-time analysis. Additionally, detection limits at the nanomolar to picomolar level for pollutants have already been reported in the literature. Herein, we summarize nanotechnological advances in green chemical sensors for environmental proposes, focusing on the detection of contaminants in soil and water.