The multifunctional roles of chitosan in the formation of flower-shaped palladium nanoparticles

The chemical and physical routes are usually used to synthesis the metal nanoparticles. However, the harmful effects on the environment and human health turn the scientists on finding greener methods. We have developed the novel green method for the synthesis of the flower-shape palladium nanoparticles (FPNPs) based on the chitosan (CS) polymer. In this method, CS can work as a stabilizer, a shape-directing agent, and a size-controllable agent for the synthesis of these nanoparticles. We proposed the growth model of FPNPs in the presence of CS to interpret mechanistic understanding. This study provided pioneer evidence about the multifunctional roles of natural polymer in the preparation of metal nanoparticles. Deep and extensive studies should be conducted to explore the great benefits of natural polymers in the green synthesis of metal nanoparticles