Low-Cost and Eco-Friendly Green Synthesis of Antibacterial Copper Oxide Nanoparticles

Abstract

The present study reports a simple and eco-friendly synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) using green synthetic route. The synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles is explored using reducing as well as stabilizing properties of Elettaria cardamomum (elaichi). The copper oxide nanoparticles are duly characterized using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectrometer, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta-potential methods. The UV–Vis spectra confirm the formation of dark brown coloured CuO nanoparticles with a characteristic peak at the λmax value of 220 nm. Due to capping of stabilizing agents around both copper oxide nanoparticles, the hydrodynamic particle size as revealed by DLS experiments is found to be of 175 nm. The stability and overall charge on the nanoparticles are found by its zeta potential, which is found to be of− 16.2 mV. Antibacterial activities of copper oxide nanoparticles are tested against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Thus, the present method proves to be the most appropriate for large-scale green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles.