Abstract
The present investigation details a green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) using the essential oil of Syzygium aromaticum L. (clove) as reducing agent, which is a matrix with a high content of eugenol, an important compound for the reducing action of silver nitrate. The synthesis of AgNP was performed at different pH conditions (pH 7, 8, 9 and 10), and was monitored by UV-Vis Spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Transmission Electron Microscopy. The synthesized nanoparticles presented characteristic Surface Plasmon Resonance bands with maximum absorbance between 405 and 460 nm. The DLS analysis revealed particle sizes from 31 to 72 nm and zeta potential between -30.1 and -50.8 mV indicating good stability against the agglomeration of the particles in solution. The micrographs obtained by TEM showed different particle shapes and a predominance of spherical-shaped nanoparticles, and average size ranging from 27 to 94 nm. The clove-based silver nanoparticles were efficient in controlling the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, and the minimum inhibitory concentration ranged from 60 to 100 μL/mL. This study highlights the feasibility of clove essential oil as an alternative for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles by a simple, inexpensive and eco-friendly method.
Highlights
A vast number of physical, chemical and biological methods can be applied to obtain metallic nanoparticles
The present investigation details a green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNP) using the essential oil of Syzygium aromaticum L. as reducing agent, which is a matrix with a high content of eugenol, an important compound for the reducing action of silver nitrate
To verify the efficiency of AgNP synthesis at different pHs using clove essential oil as reducing agent, the samples were analyzed by UV-Vis spectroscopy from 300 to 800 nm and the particle’s formation was observed by the Surface Plasmon Resonance bands
Summary
A vast number of physical, chemical and biological methods can be applied to obtain metallic nanoparticles. The concern involving the non-degradation of the environment is even more evident today, which highlights the importance of using sustainable industrial methods capable of proposing alternatives for the reduction of harmful chemical residues [4] [5] [6]. In this context, silver nanoparticles (AgNP) are prominent in applications as antimicrobial agents that can eliminate microorganisms by interacting with their cells, preventing the cellular respiration, and its replication [7]. The search for alternative agents capable of reducing silver salts for the formation of nanoparticles, without causing health or environmental risks, is an important role in science [8]
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