Role of Light in the Improvement of Nanoparticle Synthesis

This chapter compares the properties of different light sources. A comprehensive comparison reports the advantages and disadvantages of chemical reduction and photoreduction methods. The role of light in the nanoparticle formation mechanism is proposed with the evidence from previous studies. Interestingly, the factors affecting the properties of nanoparticles, such as light sources, photoreduction time, and chemical concentration, are reviewed and evaluated. This chapter also provides examples of the synthesis of nanoparticles via the photoreduction method. In addition, a comprehensive comparison discriminates the chemical reduction and photoreduction methods with clear examples of their advantages and disadvantages. Finally, the potential of the photoreduction method is described to support the readers’ perspective in the green synthesis of nanomaterials.