Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and Comprehensive Characterization for Biomedical Applications

Abstract

This study details the preparation and extraction process of Origanum onites plant extract collected from Denizli, Turkey. The leaves were meticulously cleaned, dried, and ground before undergoing extraction in a water-ethanol solution using a Soxhlet Apparatus at 100 ºC for 6 h. The resulting extract was evaporated and stored for future use at + 4°C. Afterwards, the extract was utilized in the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles by adding it to a solution of silver nitrate. The impact of temperature on the synthesis of silver nanoparticles was explored across various temperature values (30 ºC, 60 ºC, and 90 ºC). Furthermore, the influence of reaction time on silver nanoparticle formation was investigated at the determined optimum temperature, with examination periods set at 60, 120, and 180 minutes. The influence of temperature on the antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity of the synthesized nanoparticles has been explored across three distinct temperature values. Characterization of the Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) included UV–Vis Spectrophotometry for surface plasmon resonance, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for morphological analysis, Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) for elemental composition, Particle size distribution and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectroscopy for interpreting chemical bonds and functional groups.