Bio-inspired synthesis and bio-activity of ruthenium nanoparticles from Tridax procumbens (Dagadi Pala) leaf extract

Herein, ruthenium nanoparticles (RuNPs) were synthesized using Tridax procumbens leaf extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesis was optimized by adjusting temperature, leaf extract concentration, and reaction time. The synthesized RuNPs were characterized using UV-visible, XRD, EDAX, FTIR spectroscopy, SEM, and TEM, revealing uniform size and morphology. UV-visible spectroscopy confirmed RuNP formation with an absorption peak at 288 nm. FTIR analysis identified functional groups, with a peak at 600-800 cm^-1 indicating metallic Ru. XRD patterns showed peaks corresponding to RuNPs, with an average crystal size of 12.9 nm. SEM and TEM images revealed spherical RuNPs with an average diameter of 11.30 nm. The biological properties of the RuNPs were evaluated, demonstrating significant antibacterial and antifungal properties, and notable antioxidant activity. Antimicrobial activity was observed against Gram-positive bacteria (B. cereus, S. aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (P. aeruginosa, E. coli) at concentrations of 50 µg/mL and above. The RuNPs showed antifungal activity against Candida albicans at 75 µg/ml and 100 µg/ml, but no activity against Aspergillus niger. The highest antioxidant activity was 77.13 ± 0.64% at a concentration of 100 µl. This study highlights the feasibility of utilizing Tridax procumbens leaf extract for the environmentally friendly synthesis of ruthenium nanoparticles, demonstrating their potential in biomedical applications and green chemistry.