Rapid synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles by waste thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.)

Abstract

Synthesis of nanoparticles by utilizing microorganisms and plants in green methods is a feasible procedure. This method can be used instead of chemical procedures as an eco-friendly procedure. Antibacterial activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles as one of the best multifunctional nanoparticles is well known. In this study, ZnO nanoparticles were produced by waste thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) extract. SEM, XRD, UV–Vis, visual analysis and FTIR spectroscopic techniques were used for characterizing ZnO nanoparticles. The absorption of wavelengths of the UV–Vis in the region of 290–320 nm confirmed the formation of zinc oxide nanoparticles. The average size of ZnO nanoparticles was estimated 10–35 nm by SEM technique. An eco-friendly method for the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles can be used in which the waste thyme extract is used as a stabilizing agent. Therefore, the use of waste thyme extract is an alternative to the chemical methods. Biological methods are rapid, green, economical and simple to perform.