Abstract
The aim of this work was synthetized alginate-based spheres to encapsulate biosynthesized AgNPs, produced by the fungis: Rhodotorula mucilaginosa (Ag@Alg Rm) and Rhodotorula glutinis (Ag@Alg Rg). These spheres were characterized through UV–Vis and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopies, X-Ray diffraction and scanning electronic and atomic force microcopies. In addition, their catalytic activities were evaluated in front of drug molecules, considering as pollutants, such as 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) and ceftazidime (Ceft). The average size diameter of the spheres Ag@Alg Rg and Ag@Alg Rm were 2.49 and 2.78 mm, respectively, and the plasmon band was detected around 400 nm. The particles presented a rough appearance, showing AgNPs been distributed onto alginate sphere's surface. The catalytic activity for 4-NP pollutant was around 95% of removing in 30 min for both types of spheres. The spheres were also able to degrade the antibiotic Ceft, which did not show activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli. This multi-focal catalytic activity profile of both Ag@Alg Rm and Ag@Alg Rg particles presents great potential application, principally considering a sustainable environment and effluents treatment.
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