Biosynthesis of silver nanocomposite with Tarragon leaf extract and assessment of antibacterial activity

The aqueous extract of Tarragon, as a reducing agent, was used to synthesize silver–montmorillonite (MMT) nanocomposite (Ag–MMT-NPs) in the batch method. The leaf extract and metal solution concentrations were optimized to improve Ag–MMT-NPs synthesis in 48 h. For characterizing the nanocomposite, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and UV–Vis spectroscopy were performed. The peak was observed at 437 nm on the UV–Vis spectrum, showing the surface plasmon resonance of Ag–MMT-NPs. Using XRD analysis, the crystalline nature and purity of Ag–MMT-NPs were confirmed. FTIR was used to evaluate specific functional groups, causing a reduction in silver nitrate during Ag–MMT-NPs formation. According to TEM, the average particle size was 25.12 nm in AgNPs. The nanocomposite showed antibacterial properties against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus).