Unexpected formation of AgSO microparticles from AgS nanoparticles synthesised using poplar leaf extract.

Kolenčík, Marek; Urík, Martin; Čaplovičová, Mária

There are several methods for inorganic nanoparticle synthesis. However, these methods usually need high energy and generate toxic waste. Therefore, we explored biocrystallisation as a cheaper and safer method. We used poplar leaf extract to produce silver-based nanoparticles. Here, we studied nanoparticle crystallisation under various conditions such as light-dark cycles. Silver nanoparticles were analysed by transmission electron microscopy for particle morphology and size distribution, selected area electron diffraction for crystal structure and energy-dispersive X-ray for elemental analysis. Results show that individual AgS acanthite nanoparticles are formed after 3 days of dynamic cultivation in the dark. These particles have a typical spherical shape, which is found also in the form of aggregates with vermicular structure. These particles were unexpectedly transformed into AgSO micro-sized particles of good dispersity and high crystallinity upon application of light-dark cycles. Overall, our finding shows that poplar leaf extract is a good medium to catalyse the formation of silver-based nanoparticles.

NANOFABRICS; BIOMACROMOLECULES; NANOSTRUCTURED materials; SALICACEAE; NANOPARTICLES

Environmental Chemistry Letters, 2014, Vol 12, Issue 4, p551

1610-3653

Academic Journal

10.1007/s10311-014-0484-0