Terminalia chebula mediated green and rapid synthesis of gold nanoparticles

Biologically inspired experimental process in synthesising nanoparticles is of great interest in present scenario. Biosynthesis of nanoparticles is considered to be one of the best green techniques in synthesising metal nanoparticles. Here, an in situ green biogenic synthesis of gold nanoparticles using aqueous extracts of Terminalia chebula as reducing and stabilizing agent is reported. Gold nanoparticles were confirmed by surface plasmon resonance in the range of 535 nm using UV–visible spectrometry. TEM analysis revealed that the morphology of the particles thus formed contains anisotropic gold nanoparticles with size ranging from 6 to 60 nm. Hydrolysable tannins present in the extract of T. chebula are responsible for reductions and stabilization of gold nanoparticles. Antimicrobial activity of gold nanoparticles showed better activity towards gram positive S. aureus compared to gram negative E. coli using standard well diffusion method.

A green method to synthesise gold nanoparticles within few seconds using aqueous Terminalia chebula seed extract was demonstrated. The completion of Au nanoparticles formation within seconds was evidenced potentiometrically.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► First report to use aq. Terminalia chebula extracts to synthesise gold nanoparticles.
► Hydrolysed tannins acts as reducing and capping agents
► Formation of Au NPs is very rapid and will be completed in less than 20 s.
► Au NPs show better antimicrobial activity against S. aureus.