A facile detachable catalyst support: Green synthesis of Ag nanoparticles, immobilizing into waste corn husk fibers, evaluation of photocatalytic performance and bioactivity analysis

The escalating demand for metallic nanoparticles (Nps) is propelled by their expanding utility in environmental and biomedical disciplines. To enhance the efficiency of wastewater treatment, nanotechnology, renowned for its environmentally friendly properties, has been strategically employed. Nano-metals, distinguished for their photocatalytic and antimicrobial capabilities, were harnessed in this investigation. A biochemical synthesis method involving the green synthesis of environmentally friendly and non-toxic AgNps, utilizing Myrtus communis leaf extract, was implemented. The subsequent immobilization of these synthesized nanoparticles into corn husk fibers facilitated the photocatalytic degradation of Crystal Violet dye, yielding an impressive 96 % removal efficiency. The optimization of methodologies using Central Composite Design was validated through ANOVA. Surface properties were comprehensively assessed through SEM-EDS and FT-IR analyses, while crystal structure elucidation was achieved via XRD analysis. The synthesized AgNps showcased notable antioxidant activity, registering 90.61 % efficacy even at a modest concentration of 100 mg/L. Microdilution assays underscored the consequential antibacterial and antifungal activities against diverse microorganisms. Notably, AgNps exhibited substantial antibiofilm efficacy, reaching peak rates of 89.63 % and 81.75 % against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa at 20 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, E. coli cell viability was markedly impeded, displaying a 95.87 % reduction compared to the control at a concentration of 20 mg/L. In summation, AgNps manifest noteworthy antimicrobial, antioxidant, cell viability, and antidiabetic potential. Their integration into photocatalytic processes offers a nuanced strategy for environmental remediation, coupling heightened pollutant degradation with inherent antibacterial attributes, thereby advancing the evolution of effective and sustainable water treatment technologies.