Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using the methanolic leaves extract of Bauhinia variegata L.

The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) gained significant attention due to their unique physicochemical properties and various applications in biological, environmental and technological disciplines. The biosynthesis of noble metal nanoparticles is a fast-growing research field that is drawing interest from many different scientific areas. In the present study, Bauhinia variegata methanol leaf extract was used as a reducing agent and stabiliser during the synthesis of Ag-NPs. The methanol extract of B. variegata leaves was analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The synthesised silver nanoparticles were characterised by UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction techniques. Nanoparticles were characterised using UV-visible spectroscopy and a distinctive absorbance peak at 433 nm was revealed. The zeta potential examination of the produced nanoparticles showed an average zeta potential value of -20.2 mV. The average shape of silver nanoparticles is indicated by SEM (Hitachi S-4500) examination with a diameter of 20–40 nm. The average crystalline size was ~29 nm. This study evaluates green synthesis and traditional methods, highlighting their respective benefits and drawbacks, while also clarifying the essential mechanisms underlying the synthesis of Ag-NPs. The findings suggest that green-synthesised Ag-NPs possess significant potential in medicine and environmental applications.