Chitosan–Zein Films Decorated with Green Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles Using Bergenia ciliata Extract

This study reports on the fabrication of chitosan-zein films decorated with silver nanoparticles synthesized via a green and eco-friendly approach using an extract of <i>Bergenia ciliata</i>. The strong reducing ability and caping properties of the phytochemicals present in the extract enabled the formation of silver nanoparticles with an average diameter of ~40 nm without any external reducing agent and stabilizer. The uniformly distributed Ag nanoparticles were embedded in the chitosan-zein matrix. The structural and morphological characteristics of the film were analyzed via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The silver nanoparticles decorated with chitosan-zein films showed thermal stability, durability, and excellent antimicrobial activities. This finding demonstrates a sustainable and green pathway for developing multifunctional nanocomposite films, contributing to the advancement of bio-based materials for prospective therapeutic applications and active food packaging.