Biosynthesis and Characterization of Gold and Silver Nanoparticles Using Milk Thistle ( Silybum marianum ) Seed Extract

Abstract

Biogenic synthesis of gold and silver nanoparticles from aqueous solutions using milk thistle ( Silybum marianum ) seed extract as reducing and stabilizing agent has been reported. Formation and stabilization of nanoparticles were monitored using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) bands of UV-Vis spectroscopy. Morphology of gold and silver nanoparticles was investigated using X-ray diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy with selected area electron diffraction analysis, and dynamic light scattering. Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy was employed to identify the possible biomolecules responsible for the reduction and stabilization of nanoparticles.