Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Mentha aquatic L Extract as the Reducing Agent

Background: Developing effective methods for the synthesis of bio-compatible and non-toxic nanoparticles is the main goal of nanotechnology. In the most chemical methods, a chemical reducing agent is used to reduce metal ions. But, in chemical methods, the stability of nanoparticles is controversial and synthesis in large sizes is much more difficult. Moreover, there is an increasing demand for the synthesis of nanoparticles using eco-friendly methods in order to avoid the harmful effects of chemical factors. Green synthesis is an alternative method for this purpose. The aim of this study was to assess green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Mentha aquatic L extract as the reducing agent. Methods: In this Study, Mentha aquatic L was used as a reducing agent for the synthesis of bio-compatible silver nanoparticles. Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles was performed in three phases: preparing Mentha aquatic L extract, preparing silver nitrate solution, and adding the extract to the silver nitrate solution. Morphology of the sample and particle size distribution were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS), respectively. Light absorption of nanoparticles was analyzed by Ultraviolet - visible (UV-Vis) absorption spectroscopy. Results:Analysis of UV-Vis absorption at 430 nm indicated the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) property of the particles.Considering the peak of dynamic light scattering (DLS) plot, particle size distribution of silver nanoparticles was below 100 nm.According to the results of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), nanoparticles with mean particle size of 30 nm and spherical shape were the most frequent particles. The Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) confirmed the presence of silver. Conclusion:Based on the results, proper synthesis of nanoparticles with uniform distribution was confirmed. Therefore, Mentha aquatic L extract is an effective reducing agent that can be used as an alternative for chemical products in the synthesis of nanoparticles.