ABSTRACT
Physical, chemical and biological processes in soil–water–plant systems are influenced by available nanoparticles (NPs). These NPs have an impact on environmental quality as well as human health since they are directly or indirectly engaged in a variety of soil processes, including aggregate formation, nutrient retention, microbial activity, water purification and pollution mitigation. Heavy metals (HMs) interacting with various nanoparticles (NPs) creates a significant impact on the complex ecosystem. Size, shape and surface charge of NPs as well as pH, ionic strength, organic matter content and clay content of soil environment have an impact on physical and chemical processes, which will lead to NP dissolution, agglomeration and aggregation. The movement and bioavailability of NPs to soil organisms will be governed by their behaviour in the soil. Nanoparticles have gained the attention of being potential ameliorative agents for the heavy metal stressed environment. In addition to the metal toxicity reduction, nanoparticles can enhance plant biomass and nutrient availability in soil. On the contrary, metal nanoparticles have raised alarms due to their phytotoxicity caused by the extensive agricultural application. The use of NPs as a tool for remediation has on one end aided in the restoration of plant growth and vitality, while on the other end has posed toxicity threats to the environment. These NPs may be bioavailable to plants or may showcase the tendency of bioaccumulation. Therefore, an understanding of the interaction, mode of action and phytotoxicity mechanism of NPs can benefit the plant-NP association for the regulation of plant-soil sustainability.
