Green synthesis and characterization of gold nanoparticles using extract of anti-tumor potent Crocus sativus

In the present study, we have explored anti-tumor potent Crocus sativus (saffron) as a reducing agent for one pot size controlled green synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNps) at ambient conditions. The nanoparticles were characterized using UV–vis, scanning electron microscope (SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and FTIR analysis. The prepared AuNPs showed surface Plasmon resonance centered at 549 nm with average particle size of 15±5 nm. Stable, spherical and triangular crystalline AuNPs with well-defined dimensions were synthesized using anti-tumor potent Crocus sativus (saffron). Crystalline nature of the nanoparticles is confirmed from the HR-TEM, SAED and SEM images, and XRD patterns. From the FTIR spectra it is found that the biomolecules are responsible for capping in gold nanoparticles.

► In this study, we have explored anti-tumor potent Crocus sativus as a reducing agent.
► AuNPs showed SPR centered at 549 nm with average particle size of 19±5 nm.
► Spherical and triangular AuNPs synthesized from anti-tumor potent Crocus sativus.
► FTIR spectra shows biomolecules are responsible for reduction and capping in AuNPs.
► The nanoparticles were characterized using UV–vis, SEM, TEM and XRD.