GREEN SYNTHESIS OF SILVER ANTIMICROBIALS FOR ITS POTENTIAL APPLICATION IN CONTROL OF NOSOCOMIAL INFECTIONS

摘要

Objective: The aim of the project was to obtain silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with an extract obtained from Penicillium notatum and to functionalize paper for its use as antimicrobial. Methods: Silver nitrate was taken as the starting material and formation of the AgNPs was monitored using ultraviolet-visible (UV-VIS) absorption spectroscopy. We have used transmission electron microscopy, zeta potential measurement and UV-VIS spectroscopy to characterize the NPs obtained. The antibacterial activity of the NP was measured by Kirby–Bauer method. Results: Synthesized AgNPs monitored using UV-VIS spectroscopy indicated a typical surface plasmon absorption maxima of 430 nm from the UV-VIS spectrum. The average size and morphology of AgNPs were determined by differential light scattering and found in the range of 30-40 nm. The NPs generated were found to have high antimicrobial and bactericidal activity against Gram-negative as well as Gram-positive bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtillis. Conclusion: This study indicates successful green synthesis of AgNPs without the use of capping agents. Experimentation proved that AgNPs conjugated with paper can be used to design antimicrobial wipes for the hospitals. As the AgNPs have already been proved to have antimicrobial activity, the disadvantage of generating antibiotic resistant strains can be easily avoided.