sc4003664_si_001.pdf (1002.77 kB)
Microwave-Assisted Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Orange Peel Extract
journal contribution
posted on 2014-03-03, 00:00 authored by Genevieve
A. Kahrilas, Laura M. Wally, Sarah
J. Fredrick, Michael Hiskey, Amy L. Prieto, Janel E. OwensSilver
nanoparticles (AgNPs) were prepared in a one-step microwave-assisted
synthesis guided by the principles of green chemistry. Microwave parameters
were optimized using the Box–Benhken design for three factors
(time, temperature, and pressure). Aqueous extracts from the peels
of citrus fruits (orange, grapefruit, tangelo, lemon, and lime) were
used for the synthesis of AgNPs using microwave technology, though
the synthesis of AgNPs was only successful using the orange peel extract.
Nanospheres of TEM mean diameter (with standard deviation) of 7.36
± 8.06 nm were successfully synthesized in 15 min by reducing
Ag+ ions (from AgNO3) with orange peel extract, which also
served as a capping agent. Creation of AgNPs was confirmed using UV–visible
spectroscopy, fluorescence emission spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction,
and transmission electron microscopy, while size analysis was gathered
from both transmission electron microscopy as well as dynamic light
scattering. Analysis of all citrus peel extracts by gas chromatography–mass
spectrometry indicated that the putative compounds responsible for
successful AgNP synthesis with orange extract were aldehydes. The
creation of AgNPs using environmentally benign reagents in minimal
time paves the way for future studies on AgNP toxicity without risking
interference from potentially toxic reagents and capping agents.