Versatile and Emerging Applications of Halloysite Nanotubes: From Nanotechnology to Biomedicine and Environmental Solutions

Halloysite nanotubesHalloysite nanotubes (HNTs), are 1D naturally occurring aluminosilicate clay mineralsClay minerals mined from the natural clay deposits. These nanotubes possess a distinct hollow nano-tubular morphology, with their length ranging from 400 to 1000 nm and an inner diameter of 10–20 nm as well as an outer diameter of 40–80 nm. HNTs are natural in origin, bio-compatible, bio-degradable and eco-friendly in nature. The unique structure and distinctive characteristics of HNTs contributes to a tunable surface chemistry with an enhanced surface area. The presence of large lumen diameter and nano porous structure of HNTs provides an active site and make HNTs as a potential nano-container to encapsulate a variety of anti-inflammatory, antibiotics, anti-cancer and anti-fungal drug moieties. This book chapter outlines the recent advances and applications of HNTs in the various domains of bio-medicine and non-bio-medicine. Their biocompatibility and ability to encapsulate drugs, enzymes, and other bioactive agents make HNTs valuable in drug delivery systems, where they provide controlled and sustained release profiles. Additionally, the applications of HNTs are explored for environmental applications such as waste water treatment and fabrication of eco-friendly as well as bio-degradable food packaging materials. This chapter delivers an insightful resources to the researchers in the design and development of an innovative solutions for a wide range of applications.