Synthesis, optimization and characterization of Silver nanoparticles using aqueous seed extract of Trigonella foenum‐graceum L. for catalytic reduction of p‐nitrophenol

The present study was focused on green synthesis of Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Trigonella foenum‐graceum L. seed extract belonging to specific variety HM (Hisar Mukta) 425, optimizing the different experimental conditions required for the formation and stability of AgNPs. UV‐Vis spectroscopy, Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to characterise the synthesised AgNPs. The average size of AgNPs was found to be 22 nm and were spherical in shape. Additionally, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has listed nitrophenols as a priority pollutant, and biosynthesized AgNPs can catalytically convert them into less harmful aminophenols. One example of a reaction where AgNPs are used as a catalyst is the conversion of p‐nitrophenol to p‐aminophenol, which acts as a bridge for many analgesics and antipyretic medications. Hence, the study is anticipated to have a significant impact on the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. The present work describes a clean, green, and cost‐effective approach for the synthesis of biogenic AgNPs from Trigonella foenum‐graecum L. seeds by optimizing the reaction conditions, such as the amount of seed extract, concentration of AgNO3, temperature, pH, and incubation time. AgNPs were characterized using UV‐Vis spectroscopy, PSA, FESEM, HRTEM, XRD, and FTIR techniques. These green AgNPs showed great potential for the reduction of p‐nitrophenol, which is a priority pollutant to p‐aminophenol.