Biogenic synthesis of zinc sulphide nanoparticles using Allium sativum extract and evaluation of antimicrobial activity

This research focuses on the production of fluorescent semiconductor particles derived from the extract of Allium sativum, a medicinal plant, followed by the synthesis of Zinc Sulfide (ZnS) nanoparticles. The method described leads to the isolation of ZnS nanoparticles with an average size ranging from 10 to 20 nm. Characterization through AFM, UV, and FTIR spectra was carried out. Non-contact AFM analysis confirms a consistent size distribution of particles in the 8 nm to 10 nm range. FT-IR data revealed vibrational frequencies of ZnS particles at approximately 689 and 614 cm-1, while UV-Vis spectra exhibited a distinct absorption band at 214 nm. The antibacterial efficacy of ZnS nanoparticles was significant against S. aureus, S. pyogenes, E. coli, and S. paratyphi, resulting in inhibition zones measuring 9, 9, 10, and 11 mm, respectively. Additionally, ZnS nanoparticles exhibited inhibitory effects on A. fumicatus and C. albicans, with inhibition zones of 9 and 8 mm, respectively. This biogenic approach is considered novel, straightforward, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective for the preparation of semiconductor nanoparticles without the use of expensive chemical substances.