Showing papers in "Applied Nanoscience in 2015"

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using marine algae Caulerpa racemosa and their antibacterial activity against some human pathogens

Abstract: We present the synthesis and antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles using Caulerpa racemosa ,a marine algae. Fresh C. racemosa was collected from the Gulf of Mannar, Southeast coast of India. The seaweed extract was used for the synthesis of AgNO3 at room temperature. UV-visible spectrometry study revealed sur- face plasmon resonance at 413 nm. The characterization of silver nanoparticle was carried out using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). FT-IR measurements revealed the possible functional groups responsible for reduction and stabilization of the nanopar- ticles. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the particles were crystalline in nature with face-centered cubic geom- etry.TEM micrograph has shown the formation of silver nanoparticles with the size in the range of 5-25 nm. The synthesized AgNPs have shown the best antibacterial activity against human pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus mirabilis. The above eco-friendly synthesis procedure of AgNPs could be easily scaled up in future for the industrial and therapeutic needs.

Metal oxide-based nanoparticles: revealing their potential to enhance oil recovery in different wettability systems

Abstract: This paper presents systematic studies of hydrophilic metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) dispersed in brine intended to reveal their potential to enhance oil recovery (EOR) in various rock wettability systems. The stability in suspension (nanofluid) of the NPs has been identified as a key factor related to their use as an EOR agent. Experimental techniques have been developed for nanofluid stability using three coupled methods: direct visual observation, surface conductivity and particle size measurements. The use of a dispersant has been investigated and has been shown to successfully improve metal oxide nanofluid stability as a function of its concentration. The dispersant alters the nanofluid properties, i.e. surface conductivity, pH and particle size distribution. A two-phase coreflood experiment was conducted by injecting the stable nanofluids as a tertiary process (nano-EOR) through core plugs with various wettabilities ranging from water-wet to oil-wet. The combination of metal oxide nanofluid and dispersant improved the oil recovery to a greater extent than either silica-based nanofluid or dispersant alone in all wettability systems. The contact angle, interfacial tension (IFT) and effluent were also measured. It was observed that metal oxide-based nanofluids altered the quartz plates to become more water-wet, and the results are consistent with those of the coreflood experiment. The particle adsorption during the transport process was identified from effluent analysis. The presence of NPs and dispersant reduced the IFT, but its reduction is sufficient to yield significant additional oil recovery. Hence, wettability alteration plays a dominant role in the oil displacement mechanism using nano-EOR.

Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles from Aloe vera leaf extract and antifungal activity against Rhizopus sp. and Aspergillus sp.

Abstract: Silver nanoparticles are receiving increasing attention in the field of agriculture. This study aims at evaluating the antifungal properties of green synthesised silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from Aloe vera leaf extract against two pathogenic fungus Rhizopus sp. and Aspergillus sp. Results revealed that synthesised nanoparticles showed strong absorption maximum at 400 nm corresponding to the surface plasmon resonance. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized by SEM, FT-IR and UV–Vis spectroscopy. From the scanning photograph it is clear that particles are heterogeneous in shape such as rectangular, triangular and spherical with uniform distribution. FT-IR study showed sharp absorption peaks at 1,631 and 3,433 cm−1 for amide and alcoholic hydroxide groups, respectively. On the other hand, synthesised silver nanoparticles showed highest antifungal activity against Aspergillus sp. than Rhizopus sp. by application of 100 μL of 1 M silver nanoparticles with maximum inhibition of the growth of fungal hyphae. However, microscopic observation revealed that synthesised nanoparticles caused detrimental effects on conidial germination along with other deformations such as structure of cell membrane and inhibited normal budding process of both the tested species. Therefore, it has been concluded that Aloe vera leaf extract origin silver nanoparticles have tremendous potentiality towards controlling pathogenic fungus. However, further research is needed to check the efficacy of size-dependent AgNPs on different species of fungus.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using fresh water green alga Pithophora oedogonia (Mont.) Wittrock and evaluation of their antibacterial activity

Abstract: In the present study, we report the aqueous extract of Pithophora oedogonia to produce silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by reduction of silver nitrate. It was noted that synthesis process was considerably rapid and silver nanoparticles were generated within few minutes of silver ions coming in contact with the algal extract. A peak at 445 nm corresponding to the plasmon absorbance of AgNPs was noted in the UV–vis spectrum of the aqueous medium that contained silver ions. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) and dynamic light scattering analysis of colloidal AgNPs indicated the size of 34.03 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed strong signals in the silver region and confirmed of the AgNPs. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis of the nanoparticles indicated the presence of protein which was regarding a capping agent surrounding the AgNPs. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of synthesized nanoparticles exhibited potential inhibitory activity against seven tested pathogenic bacteria.

Synthesis and characterization of undoped and cobalt-doped TiO 2 nanoparticles via sol-gel technique

Abstract: TiO2 nanoparticles doped with different concentrations of cobalt (4, 8, 12 and 16 %) were synthesized by sol–gel method at room temperature with appropriate reactants. In general, TiO2 can exist in anatase, rutile, and brookite phases. In this present study, we used titanium tetra iso propoxide and 2-propanol as a common starting materials and the obtained products were calcined at 500 °C and 800 °C to get anatase and rutile phases, respectively. The crystalline sizes of the doped and undoped TiO2 nanoparticles were observed with X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The functional groups of the samples were identified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). From UV–VIS diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), the band gap energy and excitation wavelength of doped and undoped TiO2 nanoparticles were identified. The defect oriented emissions were seen from photoluminescence (PL) study. The spherical uniform size distribution of particles and elements present in the samples was determined using two different techniques viz., scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDX) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) with selected area electron diffraction (SAED) pattern. The second harmonic generation (SHG) efficiency was also found and the obtained result was compared with potassium di hydrogen phosphate (KDP).

Antimicrobial activity of zinc and titanium dioxide nanoparticles against biofilm-producing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the major nosocomial pathogens responsible for a wide spectrum of infections and the emergence of bacterial resistance to antibiotics has lead to treatment drawbacks towards large number of drugs. Formation of biofilms is the main contributing factor to antibiotic resistance. The development of reliable processes for the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles is an important aspect of nanotechnology today. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide nanoparticles comprise well-known inhibitory and bactericidal effects. Emergence of antimicrobial resistance by pathogenic bacteria is a major health problem in recent years. This study was designed to determine the efficacy of zinc and titanium dioxide nanoparticles against biofilm producing methicillin-resistant S. aureus. Biofilm production was detected by tissue culture plate method. Out of 30 MRSA isolates, 22 isolates showed strong biofilm production and 2 showed weak and moderate biofilm formation. Two strong and weak biofilm-producing methicillin-resistant S. aureus isolates were subjected to antimicrobial activity using commercially available zinc and titanium dioxide nanoparticles. Thus, the nanoparticles showed considerably good activity against the isolates, and it can be concluded that they may act as promising, antibacterial agents in the coming years.

Photocatalytic activity of biogenic silver nanoparticles synthesized using yeast ( Saccharomyces cerevisiae ) extract

Abstract: Synthesis of metallic and semiconductor nanoparticles through physical and chemical route is quiet common but biological synthesis procedures are gaining momentum due to their simplicity, cost-effectivity and eco-friendliness. Here, we report green synthesis of silver nanoparticles from aqueous solution of silver salts using yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) extract. The nanoparticles formation was gradually investigated by UV–Vis spectrometer. X-ray diffraction analysis was done to identify different phases of biosynthesized Ag nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy was performed to study the particle size and morphology of silver nanoparticles. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of the nanoparticles was performed to study the role of biomolecules capped on the surface of Ag nanoparticles during interaction. Photocatalytic activity of these biosynthesized nanoparticles was studied using an organic dye, methylene blue under solar irradiation and these nanoparticles showed efficacy in degrading the dye within a few hours of exposure.

The green synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of the biological activities of silver nanoparticles synthesized from Leptadenia reticulata leaf extract

Abstract: Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag Nps) was carried out using methanol leaves extract of L. reticulata. Ag Nps were characterized based on the observations of UV–visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. These Ag Nps were tested for antimicrobial activity by agar well diffusion method against different pathogenic microorganisms and antioxidant activity was performed using DPPH assay. Further, the in vitro cytotoxic effects of Ag Nps were screened against HCT15 cancer cell line and viability of tumor cells was confirmed using MTT ((3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, a yellow tetrazole)) assay. The nuclear condensation was studied using the propidium iodide-staining method. The color change from green to dark brown and the absorbance peak at about 420 nm indicated the formation of nanoparticles. XRD pattern showed characteristic peaks indexed to the crystalline planes (111), (200) and (220) of face-centered cubic silver. The nanoparticles were of spherical shape with varying sizes ranging from 50 to 70 nm. Biosynthesized Ag Nps showed potent antibacterial activity and effective radical scavenging activity. MTT assay revealed a dose-dependent decrease in cell viability. Microscopic observations showed distinct cellular morphological changes indicating unhealthy cells, whereas the control appeared normal. Increase in the number of propidium iodide positive cells were observed in maximum concentration. Methanolic leaf extract of L. reticulata acts as an excellent capping agent for the formation of silver nanoparticles and demonstrates immense biological activities. Hence, these Ag NPs can be used as antibacterial, antioxidant as well as cytotoxic agent in treating many medical complications.

Influence of water soluble carbon dots on the growth of wheat plant

Abstract: The effect of water soluble carbon nano-dots (wsCND) on the growth of root and shoot of wheat plants under light and dark conditions has been studied. The wsCND enhances the growth of root and shoot both in light and dark conditions. The effect of wsCND on the growth of root was relatively more compared to that of shoot. Scanning electron and Fluorescence microscopic analysis show that wsCNDs enter inside the plant. Raman spectroscopy also confirms this. The present study shows that wsCNDs are non-toxic to the wheat plant and can be used to enhance the production of this cereal crop.

Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles from Cavendish banana peel extract and its antibacterial and free radical scavenging assay: a novel biological approach

Abstract: Biosynthesis of metallic silver nanoparticles has now become an alternative to physical and chemical approaches. In the present study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized from Cavendish banana peel extract (CBPE) and characterized by UV–visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Atomic force microscopy (AFM), Field emission scanning electronic microscope (FESEM), Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential (ZP). The AgNPs formation was confirmed by UV–visible spectroscopy through color conversion due to surface plasma resonance band at 430 nm. The effect of pH on nanoparticle synthesis was determined by adjusting the various pH of the reaction mixtures. The crystalline nature of nanoparticles was confirmed from the XRD pattern, and the grain size was found to be around 34 nm. To identify the compounds responsible for the bioreduction of Ag+ ion and the stabilization of AgNPs produced, the functional group present in Cavendish banana peel extract was investigated using FTIR. AFM has proved to be very helpful in determining morphological features and the diameter of AgNPs in the range of 23–30 nm was confirmed by FESEM. DLS studies revealed that the average size of AgNPs was found to be around 297 nm. Zeta potential value for AgNPs obtained was −11 mV indicating the moderate stability of synthesized nanoparticles. The antibacterial activity of the nanoparticles was studied against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Biosynthesized AgNPs showed a strong DPPH radical and ABTS scavengers compared to the aqueous peel extract of Cavendish banana.

Eugenol oil nanoemulsion: antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum and phytotoxicity on cottonseeds

Abstract: The current research deals with the formulation and characterization of bio-based oil-in-water nanoemulsion. The formulated eugenol oil nanoemulsion was characterized by dynamic light scattering, stability test, transmission electron microscopy and thin layer chromatography. The nanoemulsion droplets were found to have a Z-average diameter of 80 nm and TEM study reveals the spherical shape of eugenol oil nanoemulsion (EON). The size of the nanoemulsion was found to be physically stable up to more than 1-month when it was kept at room temperature (25 °C). The TEM micrograph showed that the EON was spherical in shape and moderately mono or di-dispersed and was in the range of 50–110 nm. Three concentrations of the nanoformulation were used to evalute the anti-fusarium activity both in vitro and in vivo experiments. SDS-PAGE results of total protein from the Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum (FOV) isolate before and after treatment with eugenol oil nanoemulsion indicate that the content of extra cellular soluble small molecular proteins decreased significantly in EON-treated fungus. Light micrographs of mycelia and spores treated with EON showed the disruption of the fungal structures. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) for Fusarium wilt incidence indicated highly significant (p = 0.000) effects of concentration, genotype, and their interaction. The difference in wilt incidence between concentrations and control was not the same for each genotype, that is, the genotypes responded differently to concentrations. Effects of three EON concentration on germination percentage, and radicle length, were determined in the laboratory. One very interesting finding in the current study is that cotton genotypes was the most important factors in determining wilt incidence as it accounted for 93.18 % of the explained (model) variation. In vitro experiments were conducted to evaluate the potential phytotoxic effect of three EON concentrations. Concentration, genotype and concentration x genotype interaction were all highly significant sources of variation in seed germination; however, interaction was the first in importance as a source of variation followed by the concentration, while genotype was the least important source of variation. These results suggest the potential use of eugenol oil nanoemulsion for protecting seedcotton from Fusarium wilt infection.

Ultra-rapid photocatalytic activity of Azadirachta indica engineered colloidal titanium dioxide nanoparticles

Abstract: Titanium dioxide nanoparticles were effectively synthesized from aqueous leaf extract of Azadirachta indica under pH and temperature-dependent condition. 5 mM titanium isopropoxide solution worked as a primary source for the synthesis of titanium dioxide nanoparticles. The green synthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles were confirmed by UV–Vis spectroscopy. Fourier transform infrared spectrum of synthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles authorized the presence of bioactive compounds in the leaf extract, which may play a role as capping and reducing agent. The high-resolution scanning electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering analyses results showed the interconnected spherical in shape titanium dioxide nanoparticles having a mean particle size of 124 nm and a zeta potential of −24 mV. Besides, the colloidal titanium dioxide nanoparticles energetically degrade the industrially harmful methyl red dye under bright sunlight.

Watermelon rind-mediated green synthesis of noble palladium nanoparticles: catalytic application

Abstract: The present study reports the feasibility of synthesis of palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs) by watermelon rind. The aqueous extract prepared from watermelon rind, an agro waste, was evaluated as capping and reducing agent for biosynthesis of palladium nanoparticles. The formation of Pd NPs was visually monitored with change in color from pale yellow to dark brown and later monitored with UV–Vis spectroscopy. The synthesized Pd NPs were further characterized by XRD, FTIR, DLS, AFM and TEM techniques. The synthesized Pd NPs were employed in Suzuki coupling reaction as catalyst. The results reveal that watermelon rind, an agro waste, is capable of synthesizing spherical-shaped Pd NPs with catalytic activity.

Biosynthesis of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles using Pichia fermentans JA2 and their antimicrobial property

Abstract: The development of eco-friendly alternative to chemical synthesis of metal nanoparticles is of great challenge among researchers. The present study aimed to investigate the biological synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial study and synergistic effect of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles against clinical pathogens using Pichia fermentans JA2. The extracellular biosynthesis of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles was investigated using Pichia fermentans JA2 isolated from spoiled fruit pulp bought in Vellore local market. The crystalline and stable metallic nanoparticles were characterized evolving several analytical techniques including UV–visible spectrophotometer, X-ray diffraction pattern analysis and FE-scanning electron microscope with EDX-analysis. The biosynthesized metallic nanoparticles were tested for their antimicrobial property against medically important Gram positive, Gram negative and fungal pathogenic microorganisms. Furthermore, the biosynthesized nanoparticles were also evaluated for their increased antimicrobial activities with various commercially available antibiotics against clinical pathogens. The biosynthesized silver nanoparticles inhibited most of the Gram negative clinical pathogens, whereas zinc oxide nanoparticles were able to inhibit only Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The combined effect of standard antibiotic disc and biosynthesized metallic nanoparticles enhanced the inhibitory effect against clinical pathogens. The biological synthesis of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles is a novel and cost-effective approach over harmful chemical synthesis techniques. The metallic nanoparticles synthesized using Pichia fermentans JA2 possess potent inhibitory effect that offers valuable contribution to pharmaceutical associations.

Water-dispersible ascorbic-acid-coated magnetite nanoparticles for contrast enhancement in MRI

Abstract: Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles of size ~5 nm surface functionalized with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) form a stable dispersion in water with a hydrodynamic size of ~30 nm. The anti-oxidant property of ascorbic acid is retained after capping, as evidenced from the capability of converting methylene blue to its reduced leuco form. NMR relaxivity studies show that the ascorbic-acid-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide aqueous nanofluid is suitable as a contrast enhancement agent for MRI applications, coupled with the excellent biocompatibility and medicinal values of ascorbic acid.

Plant-mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles using parsley (Petroselinum crispum) leaf extract: spectral analysis of the particles and antibacterial study

Abstract: Synthesis of nanomaterials may involve various routes including physical, chemical and biological approaches. Here, the biological green route was chosen to prepare silver nanoparticles from silver salts to avoid the requirement of costly instruments and involvement of hazardous chemicals as well. To make the process clean and green, leaf extract of parsley (Petroselinum crispum) was used to synthesize Ag nanoparticles at room temperature. The formation of Ag-nanoparticles was monitored by UV–Vis spectroscopy. The presence of silver in the sample and its crystalline nature were verified by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The size distribution profile and particle size in the suspension were manipulated from dynamic light scattering (DLS) pattern. The shape, size and morphology of the biogenic nanoparticles were studied using high resolution transmission electron microscope (TEM). Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy was used to detect the biomolecules responsible for reduction of silver ions. These biogenic Ag-nanoparticles showed appreciable antibacterial efficacy against three bacteria—Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

Synthesis of silver nanoparticles using medicinal Zizyphus xylopyrus bark extract

Abstract: In the present paper, biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using Zizyphus xylopyrus bark extract is reported. Z. xylopyrus bark extract is efficiently used for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles. UV-Visible spec- troscopy showed surface plasmon resonance peaks in the range 413-420 nm confirming the formation of silver nanoparticles. Different factors affecting the synthesis of silver nanoparticles like methodology for the preparation of extract, concentration of silver nitrate solution used for biosynthesis and initial pH of the reaction mixture were studied. The extract prepared with 10 mM AgNO3 solution by reflux extraction method at optimum initial pH of 11, resulted in higher conversion of silver ions to silver nanoparticles as compared with those prepared by open heating or ultrasonication. SEM analysis showed that the biosynthesized nanoparticles are spherical in nature and ranged from 60 to 70 nm in size. EDX suggested that the silver nanoparticles must be capped by the organic com- ponents present in the plant extract. This simple process for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using aqueous extract of Z. xylopyrus is a green technology without the usage of hazardous and toxic solvents and chemicals and hence is environment friendly. The process has several advantages with reference to cost, compatibility for its application in medical and drug delivery, as well as for large-scale commercial production.

Phycosynthesis of silver nanoparticles and photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange dye using silver (Ag) nanoparticles synthesized from Hypnea musciformis (Wulfen) J.V. Lamouroux

Abstract: In the present investigation, simple and eco-friendly chemical reaction for the synthesis reported on biological synthesis of nano-sized silver and biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using Hypnea musciformis at room temperature along with photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange dye. The nanoparticles of silver were formed by the reduction of silver nitrate to aqueous silver metal ions during exposure to the extract of red alga H. musciformis. The optical properties of the obtained silver nanoparticles were characterized by applying UV–visible absorption and room temperature photoluminescence. The X-ray diffraction results revealed that the synthesized silver nanoparticles were in the cubic phase. The existence of functional groups was identified using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The morphology and size of the synthesized particles were studied with atomic force microscope measurements. Photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange was measured spectrophotometrically by using silver as nanocatalyst under visible light illumination. The results revealed that biosynthesized silver nanoparticles using H. musciformis was found to be impressive in degrading methyl orange.

Extracellular biosynthesis of silver nanoparticle using Streptomyces sp. 09 PBT 005 and its antibacterial and cytotoxic properties

Abstract: The application of microorganisms for the synthesis of nanoparticles as an eco-friendly and promising approach is welcome due to its non-toxicity and simplicity. The aim of this study was to synthesize silver nanoparticle using Streptomyces sp. (09 PBT 005). 09 PBT 005 was isolated from the soil sample of the agriculture field in Vengodu, Thiruvannamalai district, Tamil Nadu, India. 09 PBT 005 was subjected to molecular characterization by 16S rRNA sequence analysis. It was found that 09 PBT 005 belonged to Streptomyces sp. The isolate Streptomyces sp. 09 PBT 005 was inoculated in fermentation medium and incubated at 30 8C for 12 days in different pH conditions. The 0.02 molar concentration showed good antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria at pH-7. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles was inves- tigated by UV-Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared analysis. The synthesized AgNPs sizes were found to be in the dimen- sions ranging between 198 and 595 nm. The cytotoxicity of the synthesized nanoparticles was studied against A549 adenocarcinoma lung cancer cell line. It showed 83.23 % activity at 100 ll with IC 50 value of 50 ll. This method will be useful in the biosynthesis of nanoparticles.

Green synthesis, characterization and catalytic activity of palladium nanoparticles by xanthan gum

Abstract: Here, we report the synthesis, characterization and catalytic evaluation of palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs) using xanthan gum, acting as both reducing and stabilizing agent without using any synthetic reagent. The uniqueness of our method lies in its fast synthesis rates using hydrothermal method in autoclave at a pressure of 15 psi and at 120 °C temperature by 10 min time. The formation and size of the PdNPs were characterized by UV–visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The catalytic activity of PdNPs was evaluated on the reduction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol by sodium borohydride using spectrophotometry.

Synthesis, characterization and magnetic properties of hematite (α-Fe2O3) nanoparticles on polysaccharide templates and their antibacterial activity

Abstract: The present study is to synthesize iron oxide nanoparticles on different polysaccharide templates calcined at controlled temperature, characterizing them for spectroscopic and magnetic studies leading to evaluate their antibacterial property. The synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and vibrating sample magnetometer. The iron oxide nanoparticles were tested for antibacterial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial species. The XRD confirms the crystalline nature of iron oxide nanoparticles with the mean crystallite size of 10 nm. The functional groups of the synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles were 547, 543 and 544 cm–1 characterizing the Fe–O and the broad bands at 3,398, 3,439 and 3,427 cm–1 were attributed to the stretching vibrations of hydroxyl group absorbed by iron oxide nanoparticles. HRTEM analyses revealed that the average particle size of the hematite nanoparticles are about 85, 92 and 77 nm for AF, DF and GF, respectively, which was a coincident with the results obtained from the HRSEM analysis. Magnetic measurement exhibited ferromagnetic behavior of the α-Fe2O3 at the room temperature with higher coercivity of HC = 2,303, 2,333 and 1,019 Oe for AF, DF and GF, respectively. Antibacterial test showed the inhibition against Aeromonas hydrophila and Escherichia coli with significant antagonistic activity.

Characterization of biosynthesized gold nanoparticles from aqueous extract of Chlorella vulgaris and their anti-pathogenic properties

Abstract: In this study, biosynthesis of self-assembled gold nanoparticles (GNPs) was accomplished using an aqueous extract of green microalga, Chlorella vulgaris. The optical, physical, chemical and bactericidal properties of the GNPs were investigated to identify their average shape and size, crystal nature, surface chemistry and toxicity, via UV–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and antimicrobial activity. The sizes of the spherical self-assembled cores of the synthesized GNPs ranged from 2 to 10 nm. The XRD patterns showed a (111) preferential orientation and the crystalline nature of the GNPs. The results of the FTIR analysis suggested that the peptides, proteins, phenol and flavonoid carried out the dual function of effective Au III reduction and successful capping of the GNPs. Human pathogen Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus were susceptible to synthesized aqueous GNPs. Thus, biosynthesis, stabilization and self-assembly of the GNPs by Chlorella vulgaris extract can be an example of green chemistry and effective drug in the medicinal field.

The effect of dopant concentration on properties of transparent conducting Al-doped ZnO thin films for efficient Cu 2 ZnSnS 4 thin-film solar cells prepared by electrodeposition method

Abstract: Al-doped ZnO (AZO) thin films were potentiostatically deposited on indium tin oxide substrates The influence of the doping level of the ZnO:Al films was investigated The results of the X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that the structural properties of the AZO films were found polycrystalline with a hexagonal wurtzite-type structure along the (002) plane The grain size of the AZO films was observed as approximately 3 μm in the film doping with 4 mol% ZnO:Al concentration The thin films also exhibited an optical transmittance as high as 90 % in the wavelength range of 100–1,000 nm The optical band gap increased from 333 to 345 eV Based on the Hall studies, the lowest resistivity (478 × 10−3 Ω cm) was observed in the film doping with 3 mol% ZnO:Al concentration The sheet resistant, carrier concentration and Hall mobility values were found as 1078 Ω/ square, 903 × 1018 cm−3 and 2201 cm2/v s, respectively, which showed improvements in the properties of AZO thin films The ZnO:Al thin films were used as a buffer layer in thin-film solar cells with the structure of soda-lime glass/Mo/Cu2ZnSnS4/ZnS/ZnO/Al grid The best solar cell efficiency was 23 % with V OC of 0430 V, J SC of 824 mA cm−2 and FF of 681 %

Structural, magnetic and electrical properties of the lithium ferrite obtained by ball milling and heat treatment

Abstract: The physical properties of ferrites are very sensitive to microstructure, which in turn critically depends on the manufacturing process. Lithium ferrite is synthesized by milling process. The powder was annealed at four different temperatures 600, 800, 1,000 and 1,200 °C. The powder annealed at 600 °C has the spinel structure with some of α-Fe2O3, while the powders annealed at ≥800 °C formed in single-phase cubic spinel structure. Particle size of lithium ferrite is in the range of 26–70 nm, and is dependent on the annealing temperature. The saturation magnetization increased from 22 to 85 emu/g and the coercivity decreases from 124 to 4 Oe with increase in the annealing temperature. The dielectric constant (e’), dielectric loss (tan δ) and ac conductivity (σac) were measured at room temperature as a function of frequency. The results of dielectric properties were explained in terms of Koops phenomenological theory.

Electrochemical synthesis, characterisation and phytogenic properties of silver nanoparticles

Abstract: This work exemplifies a simple and rapid method for the synthesis of silver nanodendrite with a novel electrochemical technique. The antibacterial activity of these silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) against pathogenic bacteria was investigated along with the routine study of optical and spectral characterisation. The optical properties of the silver nanoparticles were characterised by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The optical band gap energy of the electrodeposited Ag NPs was determined from the diffuse reflectance using Kubelka–Munk formula. X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies were carried out to determine the crystalline nature of the silver nanoparticles which confirmed the formation of silver nanocrystals. The XRD pattern revealed that the electrodeposited Ag NPs were in the cubic geometry with dendrite preponderance. The average particle size and the peak broadening were deliberated using Debye–Scherrer equation and lattice strain due to the peak broadening was studied using Williamson–Hall method. Surface morphology of the Ag NPs was characterised by high-resolution scanning electron microscope and the results showed the high degree of aggregation in the particles. The antibacterial activity of the Ag NPs was evaluated and showed unprecedented level antibacterial activity against multidrug resistant strains such as Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumonia and Escherichia coli in combination with Streptomycin.

Phytofabrication and characterization of monodisperse copper oxide nanoparticles using Albizia lebbeck leaf extract

Abstract: Simple effective and rapid approach for the green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CONPs) using of Albizia lebbeck leaf extract was investigated in this study. Various instrumental techniques were adopted to characterize the synthesized CONPs, viz. UV–Vis spectroscopy, SEM, TEM, EDS and XRD. The synthesized CONPs were found to be spherical in shape and size less than 100 nm. It could be concluded that A. lebbeck leaf extract can be used as a cheap and effective reducing agent for CONPs production in large scale.

Thermal and rheological properties improvement of drilling fluids using functionalized carbon nanotubes

Abstract: The application of functionalized/unfunctionalized (multi-walled) carbon nanotubes (CNT) was investigated in the context of formulating nano-based drilling fluids from water/oil-based fluid templates. CNT functionalization was attempted by applying hydrophilic functional groups onto the surface of the nanotubes via acid treatment. Experimental data were collected for thermal conductivity, viscosity/yield point, and filtrate amount in all samples. The time evolution of thermal conductivity was studied, as well as the effects of temperature and CNTs volume fraction on the parameter. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to monitor CNTs dispersion quality. The thermal conductivity results unveil considerable enhancements, by as much as 23.2 % (1 % vol. functionalized CNT) in CNT-water-based case at ambient temperature, with extended improvement of 31.8 % at an elevated temperature of 50 °C. Corresponding results for the CNT-oil-based case exhibit an improvement in thermal conductivity by 40.3 % (unfunctionalized) and 43.1 % (functionalized) and 1 % volume fraction of CNT. The rheological results follow an analogous improvement trend. For the CNT-oil-based case, the filtration tests conducted at 138 °C and 500 (psi) show a 16.67 % reduction in filtrate amount (1 % vol. CNT). The time evolution of thermal conductivity was found to nearly equalize (at an amount of 9.7 %) after 100 h of sample preparation in both functionalized and unfunctionalized CNT-oil-based cases.

Plant-mediated synthesis of silver-nanocomposite as novel effective azo dye adsorbent

Abstract: Toxicity of textile effluent is a globally alarming issue nowadays In order to address this problem, a cost-effective and environment-friendly technique for adsorption of toxic dyes has been introduced in this research Firstly in this study, green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) having antibacterial efficacy, had been carried out using leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica as reducing as well as capping agent This research idea was further extended for the development and application of a novel method of preparation of silver-nanocomposite using synthesized microwave-assisted AgNPs with soil as a novel nanocomposite to adsorb hazardous dyes However, this nanocomposite was found to possess higher efficiency and adsorption capacity in comparison to soil as adsorbent for the removal of crystal violet dye under same experimental conditions Additionally, it was also observed that use of this Ag-nanocomposite as adsorbent helped in achieving about 972 % removal of crystal violet dye from the effluent solution

Nickel nanoparticles embedded in carbon foam for improving electromagnetic shielding effectiveness

Abstract: To improve electromagnetic shielding effectiveness of light weight carbon foam (CF), magnetic nanoparticles were embedded in it during processing. The CF was developed from the coal tar pitch and mixture of coal tar pitch-Nickel (Ni) nanoparticles by sacrificial template technique and heat treated to up 1,000 °C. To ascertain the effect of Ni nanoparticles embedded in CF, it was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, vector network analyzer and vibration sample magnetometer. It is observed that Ni nanoparticles embedded in the carbon material play an important role for improving the structure and electrical conductivity of CF-Ni by catalytic carbonization. The structural investigation suggests that the Ni nanoparticles embedded in the carbon material in bulk as well on the surface of CF. The CF demonstrates excellent shielding response in the frequency range 8.2–12.4 GHz in which total shielding effectiveness (SE) dominated by absorption losses. The total SE is −25 and −61 dB of CF and CF-Ni, it is governed by absorption losses −48.5 dB in CF-Ni. This increase is due to the increase in dielectric and magnetic losses of ferromagnetic Ni nanoparticles with high surface area. Thus, light weight CF embedded with small amount of magnetic nanoparticles can be useful material for stealth technology.

First report of biomimetic synthesis of silver nanoparticles using aqueous callus extract of Centella asiatica and their antimicrobial activity

Abstract: The present study reports the simple and eco-friendly approach for biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using aqueous callus extract as reducing agent for the first time. The formation of AgNPs was initially confirmed by characteristic surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak 453 nm by UV–Visible spectroscopy. FTIR spectrum shows different functional groups which probably involved in the synthesis and stabilization of AgNPs. TEM analysis determined the well-dispersed AgNPs with roughly spherical shape and size ranging 5–40 nm. XRD patterns revealed the crystalline nature of AgNPs with face-centered cubic (fcc) lattice. The synthesized AgNPs were found to have strong inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.