Evaluating microwave-synthesized silver nanoparticles from silver nitrate with life cycle assessment techniques.

Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) are well known for applications in electronics and as antimicrobial agents because of their unique optical, electrical, cytotoxic and thermal properties. These nanoparticles can be synthesized via a wide variety of techniques; however, they require the use of hazardous solvents which have very high environmental impacts. Nanoscience researchers have attempted novel synthesis routes that reduce resource requirements and use benign chemicals, while maintaining control over their unique properties.

High conversion synthesis of <10 nm starch-stabilized silver nanoparticles using microwave technology.

A microwave reaction to convert 99 ± 1% of Ag to silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) of size <10 nm within 4.5 min with a specific production rate and energy input of 5.75 mg AgNP L min and 5.