Diatom Biosilica as a source of Nanomaterials

Diatom Biosilica as a source of Nanomaterials

Author Name : Hirak Parikh

ABSTRACT

Diatoms, nature's silicon wonder, have recently amazed scientists with their exquisite patterns and long-lasting resilience. Diatoms are phytoplankton that engage in the biogeochemical cycling of biosilica and may be found in several settings such as water, ice, and soil. Diatoms are unicellular photosynthetic algae that live in porous three-dimensional nano-patterned biosilica cages called frustules. The diatom frustules are made up of material, which self-assembles into complex porous shells with unique features like as high specific surface area, biocompatibility, tailorable surface chemistry, thermal stability, and excellent mechanical and chemical resistance. Diatoms have shown to be cost-effective since they do not necessitate the use of pricey chemicals or complex equipment.

Keywords—diatoms, diatomaceous earth, diatom biosilica, drug delivery, biosilica frustules