Synthesis and Analysis of Ag Doped ZnFe2O4 Nanoparticles Growth Using Urtica dioica Natural Extract

The bioactive Urtica dioica plant extract is used to synthesize ZnFe2O4 and Ag-doped ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs), with the potential to impart additional functional properties to the nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirms the crystallinity and formation of nanoparticle phases. The FT-IR spectrum has provided information on the possible interaction between the metal ions and functional groups present in the Urtica dioica extract. FE-SEM images reveal that the nanoparticles prepared by green synthesis are homogeneous and the particles are dispersed uniformly. The average particle size of ZnFe2O4 NPs was determined to be 66 +/- 19 nm. However, when Ag was introduced, the Ag-ZnFe2O4 NPs become larger, more developed, and spherical, with a size increase to 79 +/- 24 nm. The nanoparticles demonstrated excellent antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungus strains as well as shows significant anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. In comparison of zinc ferrite, Ag-doped Zinc ferrite boosted the potential of nanoparticles and showed more effective results in biological activities.