Characterization and Antimicrobial Properties of Zinc Oxide Nanoflakes Prepared Via Green Chemistry Method Using Corn Silk Extract of Zea Mays

Abstract

AbstractThe pathogen‐based diseases are prime concern for modern society. Some oxide‐based nanomaterials have been found to show promising antimicrobial activities. However, the industrial synthesis of these oxide materials are harmful to environment. Zinc oxide nano‐flakes were prepared using corn silk (Zea mays) extract. The material was characterized by spectral and microscopic techniques. XRD data shows rutile structure and nano‐crystal size of 36.15 nm. SEM indicates morphology consisting of nano size particles with porous structure. EDX confirms presence of Zn and O. UV‐Vis data shows band gap of 3.62 eV. On excitation, PL exhibits a variety of emission bands in visible spectrum. Dielectric properties suggest the dielectric constant has a well‐dispersed real and imaginary portion. The ZnO NFs were subjected to antimicrobial activities (in dark and under white light) against various strains like E. coli, K. pneumonia and S. aureus. The light induced antibacterial activity is slightly higher as compared to that in dark. Best part of this study is that minimum concentration of ZnO can be used in presence of light thereby reducing the toxicity to the environment due to these metal oxides. Based on the observed results, this material could be used as multi‐dimensional functional material in day‐to‐day life.