Orange Peel Transforms Waste into Silver Nanoparticles for Health and Energy

Recent research led by Bardees Mickky from the Botany Department at Mansoura University has unveiled an innovative approach to synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using orange peel, a byproduct of the fruit that often goes to waste. Published in the journal BMC Biotechnology, this study highlights not only the environmental benefits of utilizing agricultural waste but also the potential applications of these nanoparticles in health and energy sectors.

The study reveals that orange peel, which constitutes about half the mass of the fruit, can be transformed into silver nanoparticles through a green synthesis method. This approach is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly, reducing the reliance on harmful chemical processes typically used in nanoparticle production. The research team utilized various extraction methods from the orange peel to identify the most effective one, ultimately finding that boiling the peel yielded the best results in terms of phytochemical content and antioxidant properties.

The synthesized silver nanoparticles demonstrated a spherical shape and a size range of 30-40 nanometers, with a significant yield conversion of 82%. While the antioxidant capacity of these nanoparticles was lower than that of the orange peel extract, their antitumor activity was notably high. The nanoparticles showed an IC50 value of 16 ppm against HCT-116 cancer cells and an impressive 1.6 ppm against HepG2 cells, indicating their potential as a therapeutic agent against certain types of cancer.

Mickky stated, “The potency of the peel extract to mediate the synthesis of AgNPs was monitored through various analytical techniques, and the results were promising.” This highlights both the efficiency of the process and the potential health benefits of the resulting nanoparticles.

The implications of this research extend beyond health applications. In the energy sector, silver nanoparticles are recognized for their unique properties, including their ability to enhance the efficiency of solar cells and their potential use in energy storage systems. As the energy industry increasingly seeks sustainable and innovative materials, the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles from agricultural waste like orange peel presents a dual opportunity: reducing waste and creating valuable materials for energy applications.

This study not only opens doors for further research into the health benefits of silver nanoparticles but also sets a precedent for utilizing natural resources in sustainable ways. As industries look for greener alternatives, the findings from Mickky’s research could pave the way for new commercial opportunities, particularly in the fields of biotechnology and renewable energy. The work published in BMC Biotechnology demonstrates a significant step towards integrating sustainability into both health and energy sectors.

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