Nelumbo nucifera extracts mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles for the potential applications in medicine and environmental remediation

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were successfully synthesized through a simple green route using the <i>Nelumbo nucifera</i> leaf, stem and flower extracts. These nanoparticles showed characteristic UV-Vis absorption peaks between 410-450 nm which arises due to the plasmon resonance of silver nanoparticles. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) confirmed the presence of amides and which acted as the stabilizing agent. X-ray diffraction spectrum of the nanoparticles confirmed the Face centered cubic (FCC) structure of the formed AgNPs. Dynamic light scattering technique was used to measure hydrodynamic diameter (68.6 nm to 88.1 nm) and zeta potential (-55.4 mV, -57.9 mV and 98.9 mV) of prepared AgNPs. The scanning electron micrographs of dislodged nanoparticles in aqueous solution showed the production of reasonably monodispersed silver nanoparticles (1-100 nm). The antimicrobial activity of prepared AgNPs was evaluated against fungi, Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria using disc diffusion method. Anti-corrosion studies were carried out using coupon method (mild steel and iron) and dye degradation studies were carried out by assessing photo-catalytic activity of <i>Nelumbo nucifera</i> extracts mediated AgNPs.