Synthesis of gold nanoparticles using plum waste extract with green solvents

Abstract

The current study focuses on the synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using the plum peel extract obtained by deep eutectic solvent (DES) (Betaine-Urea and Choline chloride-Urea). Formation mechanism of DESs and molecular interactions between components has been studied using quantum chemical methods. DESs have been used for obtaining extracts from plum peel. It has been established that the reducing ability of extracts obtained using DESs is higher (489–580 mg ASE/g extract) than when using a traditional aqueous-alcohol solution (336 mg ASE/g extract). Gold nanoparticles were characterized by UV–vis spectroscopy, FTIR, and SEM-XRD analysis. The size of AuNPs was found to be 5–10 nm as per the particle size analyzer, and the zeta potential is − 46 to 47 mV. The scavenging ability of the sample solution to ABTS radical was determined by ABTS radical scavenging test. The AuNPs synthesized by extracting Cl-U exhibited significant antioxidant potential against ABTS•+, with an IC50 of 110 mg/mL. For the first time in a cosmetic product, AgNPs synthesized by plum peel extract in a deep eutectic solvent was used. The creams were evaluated for their organoleptic characteristics, physicochemical properties, and in vitro antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis. Results show that the cream with 0.5% AuNp increases the value of moisturizer for the skin.

Keywords

• Gold nanoparticles
• Green synthesis
• Moisturizing creams
• Dry skin
• Agro-industrial by-products