Preparation of Green Silver Nanoparticles and Eco-Friendly Polymer–AgNPs Nanocomposites: A Study of Toxic Properties across Multiple Organisms

Abstract

This article focuses on the eco-friendly (green) synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their incorporation into a polymer matrix. For AgNPs synthesis, Lavandula angustifolia (lavender) leaf extract was used as a reducing and stabilizing agent, and as a silver precursor, AgNO3 solution with different concentrations of silver (50, 100, 250, and 500 mg/L) was used. Prepared AgNPs colloids were characterized using UV–vis spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The spherical morphology of AgNPs with an average size of 20 nm was confirmed across all samples. Further, the antimicrobial properties of the AgNPs were evaluated using the disk diffusion method on algae (Chlorella kessleri) and the well diffusion method on bacteria (Staphylococcus chromogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus uberis), along with root growth inhibition tests on white mustard (Sinapis alba). Polymer composite (PVA–AgNPs) was prepared by incorporation of AgNPs into the polymer matrix. Subsequently, non-woven textiles and thin foils were prepared. The distribution of AgNPs within the nanocomposites was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Antibacterial properties of PVA–AgNPs composites were analyzed on bacteria Streptococcus uberis. It was found that not only AgNPs showed good antimicrobial properties, but toxic properties were also transferred to the PVA–AgNPs nanocomposite.