Highly stable silver nanoparticles synthesized using Terminalia catappa leaves as antibacterial agent and colorimetric mercury sensor

Abstract

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using the aqueous extract of an agrowaste: Terminalia catappa leaves. The AgNPs were characterized using UV VIS spectroscopy, Transmission electron microscopy, Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier Transmission Infrared spectroscopy and Dynamic light scattering analysis. AgNPs were monodispersed, crystalline, quasi-spherical with average size of ?11 nm and were encapsulated with capping agents present in the extract. The AgNPs were stable with the zeta potential value of ?36.7 mV. These AgNPs exhibited significant antibacterial activity against water borne pathogens and could be used as colorimetric sensors for the detection of trace levels of mercury, indicating their multifaceted application in antibacterial coating, water treatment and as colorimetric mercury sensors. The overall synthesis process emphasizes on the agrowaste utilization for the green synthesis of AgNPs. 2017 Elsevier B.V.