S.V.A.R.Sastry

Abstract

The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using plant extracts has gained significant attention due to its eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable nature. The green synthesis approach not only corroborates the significance of phytochemical-assisted nanoparticle production but also aligns with sustainable nanotechnology principles. Silver possesses a remarkable physiochemical property that make it an excellent candidate for nanotechnology applications. In this study, silver nanoparticles were biosynthesized using Plectranthus amboinicus leaf extract, a medicinal plant known for its rich phytochemical composition. The bio-reduction of silver ions (Ag+) to AgNPs was unequivocally confirmed through visual observation, where a color change indicated successful synthesis. The incorporation of zeolite as a supporting matrix was further explored to enhance the stability and functionality of the synthesized nanoparticles. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using various analytical techniques, including UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The UV-Vis spectroscopy results exhibited the absorbance in the range of 350-400 nm. The FTIR analysis revealed the presence of C-H, C=O and O-H boss present in the sample. FESEM images provided an insight into the morphology where the average particle size was confirmed within the range of 10-50 nm. This study unequivocally highlights the potential of Plectranthus amboinicus-mediated AgNPs impregnated with zeolite as a promising nanomaterial for water disinfection, biomedical and environmental applications. The results suggest that this bio-nanocomposite can be explored further for its potential applications in antimicrobial coatings, drug delivery, and wastewater treatment. Future research should focus on optimizing synthesis parameters and exploring large-scale production to facilitate real-world applications.