Aloe vera assisted green synthesis of silver nanoparticles: structural characterization, electrochemical behaviour, and antimicrobial efficiency

Abstract

The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was achieved by utilising an aqueous extract of Aloe vera together with a silver precursor. The measurements and analysis included X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), zeta potential analysis, cyclic voltammetry (CV), Raman spectroscopy, and assessment of antibacterial activity. AgNPs demonstrated antibacterial efficacy against both gram-positive (Bacillus subtilis) and gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria. The results have verified that this technique is straightforward, quick, single-step, environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and serves as an alternative to standard physical/chemical methods. The conversion of silver ions into AgNPs was achieved in about 15 min at room temperature, without the need of any harmful chemicals. The AgNPs that were produced had significant antibacterial characteristics and demonstrated a zone of inhibition against Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Bacillus subtilis. Based on the obtained results, it can be inferred that plant resources can be effectively utilised in the synthesis of AgNPs and applied in diverse domains such as for biomedical applications.