Investigation of Size Evolution of Silver Nanoparticle and Its Use in Medical Field

Abstract

Metallic nanoparticle (NP) is one the most important nanostructures used in medical purposes. However, for successful use of NPs, the size, shape, and growth kinetics should be known. In this work, we have demonstrated how silver nanoparticle (AgNP) size and growth depend on silver nitrate (AgNO3) and sodium borohydride (NaBH4) concentrations. The morphology of clusters is simulated by validating the plasmon spectra, generated using DDSCAT (based on discrete dipole approximation) simulation, with the experimental UV–Visible (UV–Vis) spectra. We find that at the concentration [AgNO3] to [NaBH4] ratio of 10:1, the nanoparticle cluster size is smallest and spherical, while for the ratio 3.3:1 this is deformed and large. For the latter, we observe quadrupole plasmon resonance. The AgNP cluster size and growth are also investigated with elapsed time and the stability of the cluster is demonstrated with entropy estimation. Thus, this work could enlighten us to select the AgNP cluster size required for medical purposes by correctly choosing the concentrations of the chemical reagents. Finally, important sectors for future studies of AgNP using γ-radiation have also been discussed, which could be useful in cancer treatment.