Silver nanoparticles synthesis using biomolecules of habanero pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) as a reducing agent

A simple, low-cost, and ecofriendly method of obtaining silver nanoparticles was obtained from AgNO3 in dilution for the first time with a habanero pepper infusion. Two sets of experiments were carried out. The samples obtained in the first experiment were analyzed by SEM and TEM. Results showed that the samples prepared using 0.001 M and 0.005 M of AgNO3 and particles with an average size of 19.3 and 26.4 nm were obtained. Furthermore, the nanoparticles prepared with 0.005 M showed an absorption peak shifted toward a larger wavelength, and according to its distribution, it also exhibited larger particle sizes. In the second experiment, different concentrations of habanero pepper (10, 50, and 100 mL) were explored and the pH and oxidation reduction potential were monitored. The sample with 100 mL concentration showed the most intense absorption peak and the highest decrease in pH, which is explained by biomolecules deprotonation. (C) 2020 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE)