Green synthesis, optical properties and catalytic activity of silver nanoparticles in the synthesis of N-monosubstituted ureas in water

•Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Euphorbia condylocarpa M. bieb root extract.•Silver nanoparticles were investigated by FT-IR, TEM and UV–vis spectrum.•Synthesized silver solutions were found to be stable for a very long period.•The optical properties were investigated by UV–vis spectrum.•Hydration of cyanamides with silver nanoparticles in water.

We report the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles by using Euphorbia condylocarpa M. bieb root extract for the synthesis of N-monosubstituted ureas in water. UV–visible studies show the absorption band at 420 nm due to surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of the silver nanoparticles. This reveals the reduction of silver ions (Ag+) to silver (Ago) which indicates the formation of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). This method has the advantages of high yields, simple methodology and easy work up.

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