Silver Nanoparticles: A Ubiquitous Material of Future

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) offer ubiquitous applications in diverse fields. The materials based on AgNPs provide profitable solutions to the contemporary exigencies such as energy harvesting, future antibiotics, molecular sensors, tracers, image enhancers, tomography contrast agents, antimicrobial fabrics, smart wearables, and many more. The unique physicochemical and optoelectronic properties of AgNPs play a central role in offering these wide applications. The synthesis and stabilization of AgNPs via physiologically benevolent molecules, and biomolecules; in addition to the surface engineering of AgNPs to obtain tailored properties, further support the diverse applications of silver-based nanomaterials. The green synthesis of AgNPs by plant extracts, microbial exopolysaccharides, and supernatant provides an economical approach for large-scale generation of AgNPs. The silver nanotechnology popularized after its utilization in household appliances, including water purifiers, washing appliances. However, excessive usage with limited regulations led to the manifestation of increased toxicity in the ecosystem, and successive accumulation in autotrophs and higher trophic levels in a food chain. Therefore, the ubiquitous applications of AgNPs must judiciously consider the environmental impact and influence on the ecosystem to ensure sustainable development. This chapter presents important highlights on the various applications of AgNPs in the modern era.