Abstract
Silver nanoparticles were synthesized by means a friendly environment and cost-effective alternative, using the nopal extract (Opuntia sp) as reducing agent in the presence of biocompatible water-soluble polymers such as poly(vinyl alcohol) [PVA], acting as stabilizing agent for this nanoparticles. The formation of silver nanoparticles was monitored by analysis UV-Vis spectroscopy showing highly symmetric single absorption band with peak maximum at ca. 421 nm. This indicates the presence of silver nanostructures, which is due to the excitation of surface plasmons; typical of silver nanoparticles. TEM analysis were used to determine the size and shape of nanoparticles, obtaining spherical nanoparticles with a size ranges from 4 to 28 nm, an average size of 10 nm. AgNps were incorporated into PVA nanofibers by electrospinning process and then were characterized by SEM and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The nanofibers average size was around 250 nm. Antibacterial and antifungical activity of the synthesized AgNPs and AgNps/nanofibers were challenge against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Aspergillum niger.
