Synthesis of Ag-Fe3O4 nanoparticles using Aegle marmelos leaf extract: Characterization and potential applications
Author(s): Avantika Kampani
Abstract: The synthesis of bimetallic nanoparticles has emerged as a pioneering field with diverse applications. In this study, Silver-Iron (Ag-Fe3O4) bimetallic nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using AgNO3 and FeO2 as metal sources, along with an aqueous extract of Aegle marmelos (Bilva Patra) serving as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesized nanoparticles, with a size of less than 8 nm, exhibited unique fluorescence properties. Various characterization techniques, including UV-visible spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS) for size with zeta potential, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were employed to confirm the formation of bimetallic quantum dots. The UV-visible spectroscopy results displayed an absorption peak in the range of 320 to 410 nm, indicating the coexistence of silver and iron in the bimetallic structure, forming an alloy. DLS analysis revealed the presence of smaller particles measuring between 6 and 8 nm, with a Z-average size and polydispersity index (PDI) of 10 nm and 0.32, respectively. The zeta potential value of -41 mV affirmed the stability of the synthesized nanoparticles. The unique properties of Ag-Fe3O4 nanoparticles synthesized via the green route make them promising candidates for antibacterial and anticancer applications. Ag-Fe3O4 exhibited remarkable anticancer efficacy against HeLa cells, with a mere 7% viable cells remaining at the highest concentration tested (100 µg/ml). This pronounced cytotoxicity underscores their potential as a potent anticancer agent. Additionally, these nanoparticles demonstrated noteworthy antimicrobial activity, highlighting their dual therapeutic potential in addressing both cancer and microbial infections. This research contributes to the understanding of bimetallic Nps, showcasing their potential in biomedical applications. The green synthesis approach, utilizing Aegle marmelos extract, emphasizes the sustainable and eco-friendly nature of the methodology, paving the way for the development of advanced nanomaterials with enhanced features.
