Cobalt nanoparticle production using algal extract: A nanocarrier for antimicrobial potential

Abstract

The present study aimed to characterize CoNPs that were synthesized using a simple, inexpensive, and eco-friendly way from algal-extract of Elodea canadensis. Further, this study also assessed the antimicrobial potential of the synthesized CoNPs. The CoNPs formation was preliminarily proved through colour change from light-pink to brown within 15 min upon adding the algal-extract to the cobalt (II) nitrate solution. The maximum absorption peaks at 450 nm for the algae-encapsulated CoNPs were obtained using UV-Vis spectrum. FTIR result proved that CoNPs were capped with active components from E. canadensis as distinct peaks were observed at 3288.4 and 1641.8 cm−1 in the infrared spectra of the algal-extract and bio-reduced CoNPs. A FE-SEM revealed that CoNPs were agglomerated and had smooth surfaces. In addition, FE-TEM indicated that the synthesized CoNPs had assorted sizes and shapes. Meanwhile, the XRD displayed several broad peaks at 2θ = 52.37°, 54.21°, and 56.09° with mean size of 14.022 nm that affirmed the crystalline nature of algal synthesized CoNPs. The antimicrobial potential of the biosynthesized CoNPs was assessed using the disc-diffusion test.