Synthesis and Characterization of Nanoparticles from Extracts of Fruits of Annona Muricata: A Green Nanobiotechnology Approach

Abstract

Green synthesis of nanoparticles from plant materials opens a new opportunity in nanobiotechnology and discourages use of expensive toxic chemicals. The aim of this study was to develop and optimise a method for synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) from ethanolic extracts of fruits of Annona muricata as well as to characterise the green synthesized AgNPs.  AgNPs were synthesized via AgNO₃ solution and characterized using spectroscopy and microscopy techniques. The formed AgNPs had an absorption maximum of 427 nm and were stable under different temperature, pH and storage conditions. Fourier Transform Infrared Resorption spectroscopy revealed the functional groups responsible for the synthesis and stabilization of the AgNPs. Scanning Electron Microscopy analysis revealed a spherical nature of the AgNPs while energy Dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy showed presence of Ag, Cl, Ca, and Si with Ag having the highest composition at 80%. X-Ray Diffraction and Dynamic Light Scattering revealed a crystalline nature of AgNPs with an average size of 60.12 nm and a polydispersity index of 0.1235 respectively. Transmission Electron Microscopy analysis further confirmed the crystalline and spherical nature of the AgNPs.  This study reports an efficient, eco-friendly and low-cost method for synthesis and recovery of stable AgNPs using ethanolic extracts of Annona muricata fruits as both reducing and capping agents has been reported. The synthesized AgNPs could have many biomedical and clinical applications.