Green synthesis, characterization and antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles using Morinda pubscens J.E. Smith root extract

Abstract

Nanotechnology deals with the synthesis of nanoparticles with controlled size, shape and dispersity of materials at the nanometer scale and their potential use for human well bein g. This leads to focus on “Green Synthesis” of nanoparticles which seems to be an easy, efficient and eco- friendly approach. In this study, the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles was carried out using root extract of Morinda pubescens as reducing agent. It was found that aqueous silver ions can be reduced by aqueous root extr act of Morinda pubescens to generate extremely stable silver nanoparticles in water. The silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) formation was confirmed by the colour change of the mixture and further confirmed by spectral analysis. UV-Visible spectrum of the aqueous medium containing silver nanoparticles showed a peak around 416.5 nm. FT -IR analysis confirmed reduction of Ag+ ions to Ag0 ions in synthesized silver nanoparticles. Further, the produced silver nanoparticles showed bactericidal effect against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Aspergillus niger. From this study concluded that the root extract of Morinda pubescens reduces Ag+ to Ag0 and enhances synthesis of silver nanoparticles with antimicrobial activity.