Synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Sodium Chloride (NaCl) for Iron (III) ions detection based on colorimetric and optical changes

Abstract

Iron ions (Fe3+) is one of the most hazardous metals found in the water supply. The contamination of that metal originated from the corrosion process of pipes and cracks from waste disposal sites. High levels of iron would affect a bad impact to the environment. The current study aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for heavy metals detection using a method which depends on colorimetric and optical changes. The approach to synthesize AgNPs adapted from polyol reduction method, i.e. by mixing polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), sodium chloride (NaCl) and silver nitrate (AgNO3). The colorimetric response of AgNPs to Fe3+ ions was observed visually and measured quantitatively by a spectroscopic method using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. This work shows that the colloidal AgNPs were sensitive to identify Fe3+ ions.