Modification of agricultural waste tamarind fruit shell powder by in situ generation of silver nanoparticles for antibacterial filler applications

Abstract

The tamarind fruit shell powder (TFSP) from agricultural waste was modified by in situ generation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the one-step hydrothermal method and characterized by SEM, EDX, FTIR spectral, XRD, and antibacterial tests. SEM analysis indicated the in situ generation of AgNPs with an average size of 90 nm. FTIR analysis proved no structural changes between unmodified and modified TFSP. XRD analysis indicated in situ generation of AgNPs in the modified TFSP. Further, the TFSP with in situ generated AgNPs inhibited the growth of bacteria and hence can be used as antibacterial low-cost filler in making biocomposites.