Vol. 12, Issue 12 (2023)

Author(s):
KD Padole, PK Lokhande, US Dalvi, BM Bhalerao, SG Mohite, DP Kachare, SV Damame and RM Naik

Abstract:
Development of green nanotechnology is generating interest of researchers toward ecofriendy biosynthesis of nanoparticles. In this study, an attempt has been made to utilize a major bio waste product, pomegranate fruit peel (Punica granatum L.) to synthesize copper nanoparticle (CuNPs). The CuNPs were synthesized using the aqueous extract of pomegranate fruit peel extract as reducing and capping agent. The pomegranate fruit peel extract synthesized CuNPs were confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) as well as through the change of blue colour to dark brown solution. XRD pattern of copper nanoparticles demonstrated crystalline nature of the particles. The diffraction patterns observed three strongest peaks at 2ɵ = 26.75 (peak intensity 502), 25.72 (282) and 28.69 (380) were assigned to the reflection lines of copper nanoparticles. SEM micrographs of pomegranate fruit peel extract synthesized CuNPs. The pomegranate fruit peel extract synthesized CuNPs were screened for antimicrobial activity against two Gram-positive bacteria Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. punicae and Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. malvacearum and five fungi viz., Penicillium chrysogenum, Macrophomina phaseolina, Rhizoctonia bataticola, Alternaria carthani and Fusarium oxysporum. The antimicrobial activity of pomegranate fruit peel extract synthesized CuNPs was determined by paper disc diffusion method. The maximum zone of inhibition (17 mm) with 20 ppm concentration was exhibited against Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. punicae as compared with conventional antibacterial drug streptocycline. The application of 20 ppm CuNPs produced maximum mycelial growth inhibition zone of 18 mm Alternaria carthani. These results suggest that pomegranate fruit peel extract synthesized CuNPs could be used as effective control measure for bacteria and fungi.