Biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Spirulina maxima extract and their bactericidal activity

Abstract

This study reports a biogenic synthesis protocol for silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) utilizing Spirulina maxima extract as a natural reducing agent, offering an economically viable and environmentally sustainable approach. The biosynthesis pathway eliminates conventional chemical reagents while maximizing process sustainability. Comprehensive characterization of the synthesized nanostructures was performed using UV-spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. FTIR spectroscopic studies revealed the role of proteinaceous compounds and biomolecules in AgNP formation and stabilization. The biosynthesized AgNPs demonstrated notable antimicrobial efficacy against two pathogenic bacteria: Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus, producing inhibition zones of 3.2 and 2.5 mm, respectively. This investigation establishes Spirulina maxima-mediated synthesis as an efficient and cost-effective route for producing antimicrobial silver nanostructures, advancing sustainable nanomaterial production methodologies.