Green Synthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles Using Equisetum diffusum: Characterization, Antibacterial Potential,...

Area of Science:

• Green synthesis and nanotechnology
• Plant science and agricultural applications
• Antimicrobial research

Background:

• Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) offer unique properties for various applications.
• Biogenic synthesis using plant extracts provides an eco-friendly alternative.
• Equisetum diffusum is a potential source for nanoparticle synthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the green synthesis of SeNPs using Equisetum diffusum extract.
• To evaluate the nanofertilizer potential of SeNPs on tomato plant growth.
• To assess the antibacterial efficacy of SeNPs against phytopathogens and human pathogens.

Main Methods:

• SeNPs were synthesized using Equisetum diffusum aqueous extract.
• Characterization involved UV-Vis, FTIR, XRD, SEM, EDX, DLS, TGA, and DSC.
• Plant growth was evaluated over five weeks; antibacterial activity was tested against selected bacteria.

Main Results:

• Characterization confirmed stable, spherical SeNPs with an average size of 18.66 nm.
• SeNP treatment significantly enhanced tomato plant growth parameters.
• SeNPs demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial activity with varying MIC and MBC values.

Conclusions:

• Biogenic SeNPs synthesized from Equisetum diffusum are stable and effective nanofertilizers.
• SeNPs show significant potential as antibacterial agents for agricultural and clinical applications.
• This study highlights a sustainable approach for nanoparticle development and application.