Novel green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using clammy cherry (Cordia obliqua Willd) fruit extract and investigation on its catalytic and antimicrobial properties

In this study, highly monodispersed, exceptionally stable, spherical silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were successfully synthesized by the microwave assisted rapid and cost-effective green method. Aqueous extract of clammy cherry ( Cordia obliqua Willd ) fruit was used as the green reductant, and capping agent for the synthesis of AgNPs and the effect of different synthesis parameters on the optical properties of the synthesized AgNPs was also studied. The characterization of synthesized AgNPs by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction studies, UV–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the formation of small AgNPs with narrow size distribution. TEM studies corroborated that the AgNPs are highly crystalline and spherical with an average diameter of 7.13 nm. The cyclic voltammetry profile of AgNPs modified electrode in NaOH depicted prominent redox peaks evidencing an impressive electrochemical response. The AgNPs manifested high catalytic activity towards reduction of methyl orange and rhodamine blue with apparent rate constant 0.3038 min −1 and 0.1542 min −1 respectively. Additionally, the prepared AgNPs exhibited strong antibacterial efficacy against the tested microbes. Graphic abstract Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using clammy cherry fruit extract