Silver nanoparticles: green synthesis and characterization

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have gained significant attention due to their antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Among various synthesis approaches, green synthesis utilizing plant extracts is considered a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional physical and chemical methods. Phytochemicals, particularly flavonoids, proteins, and secondary metabolites, play crucial roles as reducing and stabilizing agents in AgNPs biosynthesis. The exact mechanism of phytochemical-mediated AgNPs formation remains under investigation, with functional groups such as hydroxyl and carbonyl contributing to the bioreduction process. Characterization techniques like UV-Vis spectroscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) are essential for evaluating AgNPs' size, morphology, and stability. This review highlights the potential of green synthesis in nanoparticle fabrication, emphasizing the need for further research to optimize biosynthetic pathways and scale-up production for biomedical and industrial applications.