Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver-copper Bimetallic Nanoparticles Using Alternanthera brasiliana Stem Extract

Abstract

The green synthesis of bimetallic silver copper nanoparticles (Ag-CuNPs) has gained attention due to their broad applications. Here, Ag-Cu bimetallic nanoparticles were synthesized using an aqueous extract from the stem of Alternanthera brasiliana. The phytochemical composition of the extract was evaluated through standard phytochemical tests, and the formation of nanoparticles was tracked using UV-visible spectroscopy. The resulting nanoparticles were further characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Using the Debye-Scherrer formula to interpret XRD data, the estimated sizes of the silver, copper, and silver-copper nanoparticles were 11.81 nm, 55.33 nm, and 12.45 nm, respectively, all synthesized under comparable conditions. Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of these nanoparticles were evaluated, revealing significant activity against various selected microorganisms. The study highlights an eco-friendly approach for synthesizing Ag-CuNPs with promising antimicrobial potential.