Microwave-assisted biogenic synthesis of pure copper oxide nanoparticles by Lepidium sativum L. leaves extract: Characterization and evaluation of antibacterial activity

This study delineates a sustainable and environmentally compatible route for the biogenic synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) utilizing the leaf extract of Lepidium sativum L. as a biocompatible reducing agent, employing microwave technology, alongside an evaluation of their antibacterial activity and biofilm formation against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus mutans. The size, shape, crystalline structure, and stability of the synthesized CuO-NPs were determined by energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared (IR) and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Visible), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The stability of the synthesized CuO-NPs exhibited exceptional stability within 90 days. XRD confirmed that the synthesized CuO-NPs had a spherical morphology, with an average particle diameter of 30 nm. Furthermore, CuO-NPs displayed strong antibacterial activity against the bacterial strains, as well as significant prevention of biofilm formation. This study's findings confirmed the successful synthesis of an effective, economically viable, and eco-friendly synthesis method for CuO-NPs. The results reveal their substantial antibacterial activities, indicating their use as potential alternatives to standard antimicrobial therapies, with major advantages in terms of cost and biocompatibility.