Biosynthesis of Yttrium oxide nanoparticles using Acalypha indica leaf extract

Abstract

In this study, the synthesis of Yttrium oxide (Y2O3) nanoparticles was carried out from Acalypha indica leaf extract. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer and transmission electron microscope for structural confirmation. The studies clearly indicate that the synthesized Y2O3 nanoparticle is a crystalline material with a particle size from 23 to 66 nm. Further analysis was carried out by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, to provide the evidence for the presence of Y-O-Y and O-Y-O stretchings in the synthesized Y2O3 nanoparticles. Thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry analyses gave the thermal stability of Y2O3 nanoparticles. The results of the antibacterial studies conducted by using the synthesized Y2O3 revealed an increasing rate of antibacterial behaviour with pathogens.