Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Solanum lycopersicum leaves extract for highly selective detection of mercury ions and photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue.

ABSTRACT: This study reports the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme (SLC) leaves extract as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent under direct sunlight for just only 3 min. The main objective was to develop a rapid, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly method to fabricate SLC-functionalized AgNPs (SLC-AgNPs) for dual applications: highly selective colorimetric detection of mercury ions (Hg²⁺) and photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis, FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX, and DLS, confirming their spherical shape (~ 38 nm), crystalline structure, and stable surface functionalization. The SLC-AgNPs exhibited exceptional selectivity for Hg²⁺ through a red

SUBMITTER: Tooba 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12816498 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature