Synthesis of bimetallic Ag-Cu nanoparticles using chemical reduction method as antibacterial agents against Escherichia coli

Ceria Sitorus, Makmur Sirait, Rita Juliani, Motlan Motlan, Eva Marlina Ginting, Nurdin Siregar, Rafles Sinaga

Abstract

Bimetallic nanoparticles offer enhanced antibacterial properties due to synergistic effects between different metal ions. In this study, Ag-Cu nanoparticles were synthesized using a chemical reduction method with NaBH₄ as the reducing agent and PVP as a stabilizer. The resulting nanoparticles showed a greenish-black color and an average particle size of 308.8 nm with narrow distribution. Antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli was tested using the disc diffusion method at concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15%. The results showed a concentration-dependent increase in inhibition zones, with a maximum average of 7.8 mm. Although lower than the positive control, the findings confirm the potential of Ag-Cu nanoparticles as alternative antibacterial agents. Further optimization is recommended for biomedical applications.

Keywords

Bimetallic nanoparticles, Ag-Cu nanoparticles, chemical reduction, antibacterial activity, Escherichia coli

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References

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