Biofabrication of Zirconia Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Spectral Characterization and Biological Activity Evaluation against Pathogenic Bacteria

Abstract

The eco-friendly fabrication of zirconia nanoparticles (ZrO2 NPs) using Guettarda speciosa (G. speciosa) leaves extract was achieved. Three samples were prepared by using different concentrations of the precursor solution. The synthesized samples were characterized by Ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer (UV–Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Energy-Dispersive study (EDS), High-resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM) coupled with selected area diffraction pattern (SAED). The ZrO2 NPs were in a tetragonal crystal structure, which was established by using XRD pattern and the average crystallite size was in the range of 6-9 nm. The ZrO2 NPs were in spherical morphology, and no agglomeration was confirmed by FESEM and HR-TEM analysis. Antibacterial activity ZrO2 NPs was tested against oral bacteria, Escherichia coli, Bacillus substilis, Salmonella typhi, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results revealed that the green synthesized ZrO2 NPs nanoparticles are potential antibacterial properties. From the results and discussion, leaves extract of G. speciosa is a potential natural reducing agent, and hence, ZrO2 NPs could be used for dental application.