Evaluation of Two Different Silver Nitrate Preparation Methods for Efficient Bacterial and Fungal Removal from Water

Abstract

This study evaluates two different preparation methods of silver nitrate for synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their effectiveness in water purification. The nanoparticles were prepared by dissolving a silver plate in nitric acid (A1) and by direct dissolution of silver nitrate in deionized water (A2). Characterization results confirmed successful nanoparticle formation, with A2 showing smaller particle size and better dispersion. Antibacterial and antifungal tests demonstrated significant inhibition against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus Niger, and Trichoderma harzianum, with higher efficiency at increased concentrations. Sample A2 exhibited slightly superior antimicrobial performance compared to A1. Water quality analysis indicated that silver ion release remained within acceptable limits. These findings highlight the importance of preparation method in enhancing nanoparticle efficiency for water treatment applications.