Plant-Mediated Synthesis of Yttrium Oxide Nanoparticles vs. Traditional Methods: Current Trends and Potential Applications

Nano biotechnology stands at the forefront of research, striving for the safe and eco-friendly synthesis of biocompatible materials, particularly rare earth oxide nanoparticles. The use of rare earth oxide nanoparticles has attracted significant attention, offering advancements over micron-sized materials. Among these various rare earth oxide nanoparticles, Yttrium oxide nanoparticles (Y₂O₃ NPs) are being explored for biological applications because of its excellent mechanical, thermal and chemical stability as well as its strong corrosion resistance and low toxicity. Y₂O₃ NPs can be produced using different techniques, including physical, chemical, and green (plant-mediated) synthesis. However, traditional chemical and physical methods are costly, resource-intensive, and involve the use of harmful chemicals. In contrast, green synthesis offers a sustainable, eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative by eliminating chemical pollutants and allowing for the production of Y₂O₃ NPs with precise sizes and shapes. This review highlights the plant-mediated synthesis of Y₂O₃ NPs using green chemistry approaches, utilizing various plant extracts including those from Azadirachta indica, Lantana camara, Agathosma betulina, and many others. The study further extends to the synthesis of doped yttrium oxide nanoparticles by utilizing both chemical and green approaches. Furthermore, this review sheds light on the potential applications of Y₂O₃ NPs, encompassing antibacterial, anticancer, antioxidant, anticorrosive, bioluminescent, theranostic, and optical properties.