Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles using Neem (Azadirachta indica) Leaf extract

Author: Jervin Ananth S. R., Manjula B. S., Sajan Kurien, Muthu Vijayan Enoch I. V. and B. Madhumitha

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Abstract

The development of eco-friendly and reliable processes for manufacturing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) represents a significant milestone in the realm of nanotechnology. Green synthesis is preferable to traditional chemical synthesis because it is less expensive, produces less pollution and improves environmental and human health safety. Hence, the synthesis of silver nanoparticles using neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf extract as a reducing and capping agent was carried out in the present study. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles was achieved by treating aqueous silver nitrate solution with neem leaf extract under controlled conditions. The reduction of silver ions to silver nanoparticles was confirmed by observing a change in color from pale yellow to brownish-black, indicating the formation of AgNPs. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using various techniques such as UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The UV-Vis absorption spectrum revealed a distinct absorption band centered at 460 nm, indicative of the characteristic surface plasmon resonance of the silver nanoparticles. Furthermore, the SEM image provided evidence of their mild agglomerated spherical shape. XRD confirms the crystalline nature of the synthesized nanoparticles with sharp peaks at various degrees at 38.20, 32.30, and 46.20. The stability of the material was confirmed with Zeta potential at the value of -4.02 mV. The characterization results demonstrate the successful formation of silver nanoparticles with desired properties. The synthesized AgNPs hold great potential for various applications such as catalysis, antimicrobial agents, and sensor development.

Keywords

Green synthesis, Neem leaf extract, Silver nanoparticles, Scanning Electron Microscopy, UV-Visible spectrophotometer, Zeta potential

Conclusion

Silver nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using a neem leaf extract in the presence of AgNO3 and subsequently characterized using various analytical techniques. UV-Visible spectroscopy revealed a distinct color change of the solution from yellow to brown, providing confirmation of the successful synthesis of silver nanoparticles. The UV-Visible spectrum exhibited a significant peak widening at 460 nm, further supporting the presence of synthesized nanoparticles. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis unveiled the morphology of the nanoparticles, demonstrating a mild agglomeration and a spherical shape. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the crystalline nature of the synthesized nanoparticles. Lastly, Zeta Potential analysis revealed the stability of the material, with a measured value of -4.02 mV, indicating a near-neutral surface charge. Collectively, these characterizations validate the successful synthesis of silver nanoparticles using neem leaf extract and provide valuable insights into their optical, morphological, crystalline, and surface charge properties.

References

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How to cite this article

Jervin Ananth S. R., Manjula B. S., Sajan Kurien, Muthu Vijayan Enoch I. V. and B. Madhumitha (2023). Green synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles using neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf extract. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(5): 744-748.