Biosynthesis of AgNPs by extract from waste leaves of Citrullus lanatus sp. (watermelon); characterization, antibacterial and antifungal effects

Abstract

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are valuable materials with a large number of sectors used. Green synthesis is very important for biomedical applications as they show biocompatible properties. In this study, AgNPs were easily synthesized using the environmentally friendly green synthesis approach using agricultural waste parts of Citrullus lanatus sp. plant grown in Diyarbakır region. Characterization of synthesized AgNPs was made. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis was used to evaluate the phytochemicals responsible for effective reduction in the formation of AgNPs. UV-visible spectrophotometer (UV-Vis.) Spectra were also used to determine the presence of AgNPs. X-Ray Diffraction Diffractometer (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscope, Zeta potential analyzes were performed to define the crystal structures, dimensions and surface charges of AgNPs, respectively. In these data, it was determined that AgNPs showed maximum absorbance at 460 nm, spherical appearance, 21.27 crystal nano size and -30.05 mV zeta potential. Antimicrobial effects of AgNPs on gram positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) bacteria, gram negative Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) bacteria, as well as on fungus C. albicans pathogenic microorganisms It was analyzed by specifying the Minimum Inhibition Concentration (MIC) by microdilution.