Biogenic Synthesis of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles from Lactuca indica Leaf Extract and Their Application in Catalytic Degradation of Toxic Compounds

The present study describes an eco-friendly approach for the synthesis of colloidal solution of silver and gold nanoparticles (L-AgNPs and L-AuNPs) from the aqueous extract of Lactuca indica leaf. Major parameters affecting on the formation of L-AgNPs and L-AuNPs were optimized using UV–Vis analysis at absorption maximum around 423 nm and 531 nm, respectively. The plant extract as reducing and capping agents of MNPs was demonstrated by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The nanoscale of metals was confirmed by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) measurements. TEM studies revealed that L-AgNPs were mostly spherical with average size of 13.5 nm and L-AuNPs possessed multi shapes with an average size of 14.5 nm. Selected area electron diffraction (SAED) analysis and X-ray diffractometer (XRD) data confirm their crystalline structure. The nanomaterials showed efficient catalysis in the degradation of 4-nitrophenol and methyl orange.