Abstract

The biosynthesis of eco-friendly silver nano-particles using dry fluted pumpkin (Telfairia ocidentalis) leave extract as reducing agent was carried out. The research used the extract which was prepared from dry fluted pumpkin leaves to reduce 0.01M silver nitrate solution without the addition of any capping agent. During the biosynthesis process qualitative measures like 15 minutes interval observation for 1hr., observation of precipitates formation, and laser light pointer were taken to establish the formation of AgNPs in the solution. The AgNPs for characterization were produced by allowing the biosynthesis solution to remain in the cardboard for 24 hours before filtering and drying the residue in the oven at 110 °C. The residue which was the AgNPs was characterized using ED-XRF and SEM. The NPs produced were of average size of 30nm and angular and cubicle in shape. The chemical composition of the NPs was 71.8% Ag₂O, 25% SiO₂, 2.18% Cl and other trace compounds. The NPs; given the eco-friendly method of their biosynthesis can be further purified to be used on wound bandage.

Keywords: Reducing agent; Telfairia occidentalis; Nano-particles; Wound; Purity; Extract