Green synthesis of antibacterial and azo-catalytic nanosilvers using ginkgo fruit extract

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have garnered significant interest due to their distinctive physicochemical properties. However, their practical utility is often limited by their tendency to agglomerate. This study presents a green synthesis of stable AgNPs using phytonutrients from Ginkgo biloba fruit, devoid of toxic reagents. The one-variable-at-a-time method optimised the bio-reduction kinetics, establishing ideal synthesis conditions. A pronounced absorption peak at 418 nm in the UV–vis spectrum confirmed AgNPs formation. The nanoparticles exhibited a predominantly spherical morphology, high crystallinity, and a small size of 16.5 ± 2.1 nm. Catalytic tests demonstrated the efficacy of AgNPs in degrading azo dyes, achieving ∼92% degradation of reactive yellow 179 (RY179) and ∼86% of p-aminoazobenzene. Antibacterial assays showed significant inhibition zones against four bacterial species, with a reduction rate of 87%–100%, surpassing standard antibiotics. This synthesis is applicable for creating catalytically active AgNPs for industrial uses, including azo- and bacteria-contaminated wastewater treatment.