One-Pot synthesis of biologically active bimetallic Ag-Zn Nanoparticles using Madagascar periwinkle (Sadaafuli) plant extract
Author(s): Nitya P Doshi and Sanket S Shirodkar
Abstract: Nanoparticles (NPs) have been widely studied in various fields due to their unique properties and potential applications. Among the various types of nanoparticles, bimetallic nanoparticles have gained significant attention due to their enhanced catalytic activity and stability compared to monometallic nanoparticles. Various physical and chemical methods have been developed for the synthesis of bimetallic nanoparticles. However, these methods have several limitations such as the use of toxic reducing agents, high energy consumption, and the need for multiple steps. Therefore, developing a simple, eco-friendly, and cost-effective approach for the synthesis of bimetallic nanoparticles is highly desirable. Plants contain a variety of chemicals that work not only as potential treatments for cancer, among other illnesses, but also as powerful reducing and stabilising agents in the synthesis of nanoparticles. This paper discusses the use of Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar periwinkle) leaf extract in the synthesis of non-toxic, environmentally-friendly and inexpensive bimetallic silver-zinc NPs. The synthesized NPs were characterized using techniques like infrared (IR) spectroscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The NPs were discovered to be 8 nm in size with a zeta potential of -38 mV, illustrating their stability. UV-Vis confirmed the presence of Ag-Zn NPs in an alloy structure with absorption peaks at 416 and 380 nm. These Ag-Zn NPs were tested for antimicrobial and anticancer activity. The synthesized nanoparticles showed promising anticancer and antimicrobial activity, which may have potential applications in various fields, such as biomedical, biosensors, and nanomedicine.
