Dopamine capped silver/copper bimetallic elongated nanoparticles and their potential application in wound healing

Abstract

This research introduces a simple method for synthesizing elongated bimetallic nanoparticles comprised of copper (Cu) and silver (Ag) using a co-reduction process involving Cu and Ag ions with hydrazine, alongside dopamine acting as a capping agent. Various characterization techniques were employed to analyze the prepared nanoparticles. The presence of copper and silver was confirmed through UV–vis analysis, while transmission electron microscopy confirmed their elongated morphology. Powder X-ray diffraction analysis indicated alloy formation rather than a mere mixture of the two metals, with both Cu and Ag exhibiting pure metallic properties and face-centered cubic crystal structures. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized nanostructures against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria was evaluated, demonstrating significant antibacterial properties. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity of the nanoparticles was assessed using baby hamster fibroblasts (BHK-21) cells, revealing promising biocompatibility and low cytotoxicity.