Green in situ immobilization of gold and silver nanoparticles on bacterial nanocellulose film using Punica granatum peels extract and their application as reusable catalysts

In this study, Punica granatum peels extract induced in situ deposition was applied to prepare Au and Ag nanoparticles on bacterial nanocellulose film. Bacterial nanocellulose provided as an eco-friendly and excellent support for the interaction of P. granatum peel biomolecules and further reduction of Au and Ag ions. Meanwhile, a possible in situ growth mechanism of Au and Ag on bacterial cellulose by P. granatum peel extract biomolecules was presented. Further, the metal nanoparticles incorporated bacterial cellulose films were used to catalyze the reduction of 4-nitrophenol. The results of the present study indicated excellent catalytic reduction properties of Au and Ag nanocellulose films for 4 consecutive cycles. In addition, Au and Ag incorporated cellulose nanofiber films exhibited superior antioxidant activity and improved mechanical properties compared to pristine cellulose nanofiber film. The findings of this study may provide new insights and broad application of bacterial cellulose and green synthesis method for the development of various metal-cellulose composites.