Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using pollen extract: Characterization, assessment of their electrochemical and antioxidant activities

In the present study, a simple, cheaply and environmental friendly method was evaluated for the synthesis of silver nanoparticle via Cupressus sempervirens L. (CSPE) pollen extract as reducing and stabilizing agent. Various parameters such as volume of CSPE, temperature and reaction time on AgNPs formation were investigated spectrophotometrically to optimize reaction conditions. The electrochemical behavior of the biosynthesized AgNPs were investigated by cyclic voltammetry and square wave voltammetry techniques. An electrosensor based on AgNPs modified glassy carbon electrode were constructed and tested on electro reduction of hydrogen peroxide in phosphate buffer medium. The prepared electrosensor could detect the H2O2 in the range of 5.0 μM - 2.5 mM with a detection limit of 0.23 μM. In addition, the antioxidant activity of biosynthesized AgNPs were evaluated against DPPH free radical. Results obtained from the antioxidant study suggested that CSPE mediated AgNPs exhibit a good antioxidant effect. [Display omitted] ●AgNPs were synthesized successfully via Cupressus sempervirens pollen extract.●A novel hydrogen peroxide sensor based on pollen extract mediated AgNPs were described.●The AgNPs-GCE electrosensor showed a linear response to hydrogen peroxide concentration from 5.0 μM to 2.5 mM with a detection limit of 0.23 μM.●Pollen extract mediated AgNPs exhibit a good antioxidant effect.