Size-controlled green synthesis of silver nanoparticles assisted by L-cysteine

Abstract

A green and size-controlled synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) in aqueous solution with the assistance of L-cysteine is presented. The size of Ag NPs decreases with the increase of L-cysteine concentration, and thus can be controlled by adjusting L-cysteine concentration. TEM analysis shows that Ag NPs with an average size of 3 nm can be produced in the presence of 1.0 mmol/L L-cysteine, about one sixth of the size of Ag NPs obtained in the absence of L-cysteine (17 nm). The assynthesized silver colloidal solution is stable and can be stored at room temperature for at least two months without any precipitation. This L-cysteine assisted method is simple, feasible and efficient, and would facilitate the production and application of Ag NPs.