Valorizing shrimp shell chitosan: a versatile biomaterial for fabricating effective antibacterial and antioxidant silver nanoparticles

A study was conducted to explore the potential of using chitosan (CS) derived from shrimp shells, a bioorganic waste product, as a reducing and capping agent in the synthesis of silver nanocomposites (Cs-Ag NC). The objective of the study was to develop a simpler, faster, and more environmentally friendly method for producing Cs-Ag NC. The synthesized Cs-Ag NC was characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The findings revealed that the Cs-Ag NC exhibited a crystalline structure, was coated with CS components, and had a spherical shape with an average diameter of approximately 20 nm. Under optimal conditions, the synthesized Cs-Ag NC demonstrated significant free radical scavenging activity against 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) with an IC50 value of 1.65 mg/mL, substantial free radical scavenging activity against 2,2’-azino-bis( 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid ) (ABTS) with an IC50 value of 2.8 mg/mL, and notable anti-inflammatory activity. Additionally, the Cs-Ag NC exhibited significant antibacterial activity against several pathogenic strains, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Escherichia coli , and Staphylococcus aureus . Based on these findings, the synthesized Cs-Ag NC possess promising potential as therapeutic drugs for antioxidant and antibacterial applications. Graphical Abstract Highlights Eco-friendly synthesis of Cs-Ag NC using shrimp shell-derived chitosan. Cs-Ag NC had a crystalline, spherical structure (~20 nm in diameter). Strong antioxidant activity (IC50: 1.65 mg/mL for DPPH, 2.8 mg/mL for ABTS). Exhibited notable anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Potential therapeutic use for antioxidant and antibacterial applications.