Characterization of silver nanoparticles by green synthesis method using Pedalium murex leaf extract and their antibacterial activity

In this paper, an aqueous extract of fresh leaves of Pedalium murex was used for the synthesis of silver (Ag) nanoparticles. Different biological methods are gaining recognition for the production of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) due to their multiple applications. The use of plants in the green synthesis of nanoparticles emerges as a cost-effective and eco-friendly approach. Characterization of nanoparticles was done using different methods, which include; ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), fluorescence emission spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential and antibacterial activity. UV-visible spectrum of the aqueous medium containing silver nanoparticles showed absorption peak at around 430 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectra had shown that the biomolecule compounds were responsible for the reduction and capping material of silver nanoparticles. XRD study showed the particles to be crystalline in nature, with a face-centered cubic (fcc) structure. The size and stability were detected using DLS and zeta potential analysis. The antibacterial activity of AgNPs against generally found bacteria was assessed to find their potential use in silver-containing antibacterial product.