Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles via Pulsed Laser Ablation in Liquid and Their Antibacterial Evaluation

Abstract

Silver nanoparticles were prepared by pulsed laser ablation. Their physical and chemical properties were studied utilizing various techniques, including structural and morphological analysis. The silver nanoparticles exhibited a distinct absorption peak at approximately 425 nm in ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, confirming particle formation. The optical band gap was estimated to be approximately 2.3 eV, indicating distinct electronic properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed a crystalline phase of the silver nanoparticles. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images revealed spherical particles with an average size ranging from 10 to 50 nm. FTIR spectroscopy revealed changes in the chemical bonds and surface functionalities of the particles. The particles demonstrated antimicrobial activity against E. coli (Gram-negative) and Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive), with higher efficacy against Gram-negative bacteria.