Microwave assisted production of silver nanoparticles using green tea extracts

This study was designed to produce metallic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using green tea extract and microwave power. Two approaches were employed for AgNP production. Firstly, crude aqueous tea extract was filtrated and directly used in microwave assisted AgNP production system. Secondly, catechins were selectively extracted from crude extract and 2% (w/v) aqueous solutions of catechin extract has become available in the same process. A certain volume of extract (0.5 ml or 5 mL) was added to AgNO3 solution (1–6 mM) and exposed to microwave radiation for 1, 5, 15 and 30 min in the presence and absence of capping agent polyethylene glycol (PEG). Plasmon resonance (SPR) absorption spectra were measured, thereby optimum conditions were determined. AgNPs were succesfully produced by both extracts only with 0.5 mL extract volume. Large volume of extract (5 mL) produced larger particles in all cases. Catechin extract was superior when compared with crude extract as the former produced high concentration of AgNPs at average 15 ± 6 nm particle size. [Display omitted] •Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were produced using green tea extracts.•Microwave power produced AgNPs after 1–30 min treatment.•Catechin extract was more successful for nanoparticle production.•Plasmon resonance spectrum (PRS) was used for AgNP production.•AgNPs were characterized with AFM, TEM, XRED and FTIR.