Optimization for rapid synthesis of silver nanoparticles and its effect on phytopathogenic fungi

In this present study, silver nanoparticles were synthesized by green chemistry approach using Acalypha indica leaf extract as reducing agents. The reaction medium employed in the synthesis process was optimized to attain better yield, controlled size and stability. Further, the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles were conformed through UV–vis spectrum, XRD and HR-TEM analyses. Different concentration of silver nanoparticles were tested to know the inhibitory effect of fungal plant pathogens namely Alternaria alternata, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Macrophomina phaseolina, Rhizoctonia solani, Botrytis cinerea and Curvularia lunata. Interestingly, 15 mg concentration of silver nanoparticles showed excellent inhibitory activity against all the tested pathogens. Thus, the obtained results clearly suggest that silver nanoparticles may have important applications in controlling various plant diseases caused by fungi.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Characterization and optimization studies highly supported the formation of silver nanoparticles. ► Optimized medium containing 6 ml of leaf extract, 1 mM concentration of silver nitrate solution and pH 7 supported the formation of silver nanoparticles with in 30 min of incubation period. ► Interestingly, at 15 mg concentration of silver nanoparticles were potentially inhibited the growth of plant pathogenic fungi.