Synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial evaluation of zinc oxide nanoparticles obtained using Aloe vera extract

Abstract

The green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles [ZnO-NPs] using Aloe vera extract represents a sustainable alternative to traditional methods that employ toxic reagents and energy-demanding conditions. In this study, aqueous extracts of the plant were prepared to be used as reducing and stabilizing agents in the formation of ZnO-NPs, which were later characterized by SEM-EDS, XRD and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The results confirmed the obtaining of nanocrystals with a hexagonal structure, average size of 27.75 nm and the presence of plant metabolites associated with their surface, which contributed to their stability. Likewise, microbiological tests revealed a marked inhibitory effect against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Shigella flexneri, evidencing that at concentrations above 50 mg the bacteria did not show growth. These findings demonstrate the potential of ZnO-NPs synthesized with Aloe vera as antimicrobial agents and promote their application in biomedical, agricultural and environmental settings.