Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using zein as stabilizer

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) can be synthesized through several solution-based approaches which may involve compounds of environmental concern or uncompleted reactivity resulting in not negligible waste. In this study, a specific protocol for the green synthesis of AgNPs in an aqueous environment is presented. It was shown that a limited amount of silver nitrate as precursor and ascorbic acid as reducing agent could be used employing zein (a corn protein) as a stabilizer. The as-prepared AgNPs were characterized by UV–Vis, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. Colloidal stability was evaluated by zeta potential measurements. The outcomes substantiate the efficacy of the proposed methodology, which is a straightforward approach for the synthesis of AgNPs with optimal colloidal properties. AgNPs can be then processed for direct implementation in (bio)polymers to develop sustainable materials of potential interest in food packaging, as well as in biomedical applications.