Facile size-regulated synthesis of silver nanoparticles using pectin

•This study is concerned with synthesizing AgNPs using pectin.•The concentration of reducing sugars was measured using dinitrosalicylic acid.•UV–visible spectroscopic data was systematically studied.•Transmission electron microscope images were studied.•Studying the particle size and size distribution of the prepared nanoparticles. Monodispersed silver nanoparticles capped by pectin were prepared by the reaction of silver nitrate with alkali hydrolyzed pectin at 70°C for 30min. Spherical and size-regulated silver nanoparticles were prepared using alkali hydrolyzed pectin as a reducing and particle-stabilizing agent. This approach is facile, effective, rapid, and convenient for the large scale preparation of silver nanoparticles. UV–visible spectral analysis confirmed that the nanoparticles consisted of metallic silver. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to estimate particle size and size distribution of the produced silver nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy and size distribution analysis revealed the presence of spherical silver nanoparticles with a main diameter of 5–10nm and have a narrow size distribution. The concentration of reducing sugars was monitored by using dinitrosalicylic acid. A comprehensive schematic mechanism for the formation of silver nanoparticles using pectin is proposed.