In recent years, the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles using plant-based extracts has gained much importance due to its ease and the economic advantages it offers in terms of material sustainability. These nanoparticles, when supported on biocompatible polymers, provide added benefits for biomedical applications.
This study investigates the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using spinach leaf extract and their application in dye degradation. The synthesized AgNPs, characterized by UV-Vis spectrometry, exhibited a significant absorbance peak around 400 nm, confirming successful nanoparticle formation. Three samples with varying concentrations of spinach extract and silver nitrate (AgNO₃) were analyzed, revealing that sample 2 had the highest concentration of AgNPs. The effect of calcium chloride (CaCl₂) concentration on alginate bead characteristics was assessed, with 5% CaCl₂ beads showing superior catalytic activity in degrading 2-nitrophenol, methyl orange, and Congo red. The AgNP-loaded beads demonstrated remarkable degradation efficiencies, achieving approximately 90% reduction for 2-nitrophenol and 85% for methyl orange within 30 minutes. In contrast, sodium borohydride alone did not facilitate Congo red degradation, but AgNP beads effectively reduced its concentration, likely through adsorption and catalytic action. This research highlights the potential of spinach-mediated green synthesis of AgNPs as effective and eco-friendly materials for environmental remediation and medical applications.
The antibacterial properties of the nanocomposite beads were studied using the broth method against two different strains of bacteria, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Antibacterial properties were studied as a function of the number of nanocomposite beads (5, 10, and 20). The material exhibited excellent antibacterial activity against these bacteria, even with a minimum of five beads. Further experiments are in progress, and this study opens the door for point-of-use disinfection of water and material sustainability.
