Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles by Fusarium solani isolates from Agricultural Soils in Gorgan, Iran

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are major nanomaterials with a variety of applications. The synthesis of nanoparticles by conventional methods is challenging and often requires use of hazardous chemicals. Therefore, there is a growing need for development of environmentally and economically friendly processes for the synthesis of nanoparticles. This study aimed at biosynthesis of AgNPs using a filamentous fungus; Fusarium solani.

Twenty-four Fusarium isolates were found from several soil samples collected from depth of 1-10 cm. All isolates were identified as F. solani based on morphological characteristics. The synthesis of nanoparticles were evaluated after 24, 48, 72 hours of culture. AgNPs were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy.

The synthesized AgNps showed maximum absorbance peak at 420 nm after 72 hours. Moreover, most AgNps were spherical with diameter of between 20 and 40 nm.

In this study, we introduced a simple biological process for biosynthesis of AgNPs using F. solani isolates from soil samples. The results indicate that fungi may be suitable for safe and cost-effective production of AgNPs.