Synthesis of low toxic silver-cobalt nanoparticles using Annona muricata leaf extract: Antimicrobial evaluation

In a bid for green chemistry, a sustainable approach using Annona muricata aqueous extract was engaged as a reducing agent to synthesise bimetallic silver-cobalt nanoparticles (Ag-Co NPS). Hot extraction using distilled water was done on the locally sourced plant (leaf part). It was then screened for biomolecules present as geographical location affects phytochemical compositions. Phytoreduction reaction with nanoparticle formation rate was monitored with a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. Then, further characterisations were achieved by trans-mission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The average particle size of 39.34 nm +/- 9.21 nm was obtained. This study shows an interesting result, as the increase in Ag-Co NPs concentration did not significantly affect the flies' survival compared to the control. At P < 0.05, similar behaviour was observed in the locomotive assay of the model used. An antibacterial agent can also be developed, as revealed in the antimicrobial assay on Staphylo-coccus aureus (ATCC25923), Streptococcus pneumoniae, Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Klebsiella sp., and Salmo-nella sp. and a fungus strain: Candida albicans.

Automated summary

The study utilized Annona muricata aqueous extract as a reducing agent to synthesize bimetallic silver-cobalt nanoparticles. The extract was obtained by hot extraction using distilled water on the locally sourced plant. The nanoparticles were characterized using various techniques, and their effects on fly survival and antimicrobial activity were evaluated.