Efficient degradation of 4-nitrophenol and colorimetric detection of Fe (III) by biogenic silver nanoparticles of Papiliotrema laurentii

In this study, novel biogenic silver nanoparticles have been developed involving a green method by a yeast strain, Papiliotrema laurentii (Y24) cell resuspension exudate. Synthesis conditions have been optimized and the produced nanomaterials have been characterized by DLS, Zeta Potential, FTIR, XRD, SEM, TEM to predict and analyse the particles. High crystallinity, irregular to cubical shape, and an average dimension of 20 nM of AgNPs were obtained from the characterization. Biogenic Y24-NPs were applied to reduce 4-Nitrophenol to 4-Aminophenol by catalytic activity (within 8 min). After 5 recycles, high reusability of Y24-NPs was observed (≥ 94%). Y24-NPs were further demonstrated for high selectivity and sensitivity towards Fe3＋ by colorimetric detection with the limit of 1.8 μM in the linear range of 5–150 μM. Additionally, the developed nanosensor has been tested for Fe3＋ ions in tap water samples. Therefore, Y24-NPs can be used for bioremediation with significant catalytic activity and reusability. [Display omitted] •Biogenic production of silver nanoparticles using Papiliotrema laurentii (Y24-NPs).•Y24-NPs showed significant catalytic activity and stability in 4-NP reduction.•Y24-NPs can be used as highly sensitive probes for the detection of Fe3＋ in aqueous solutions.