Study of the Optical, Structural and Electrophoretic Properties (Zeta Potential and Hydrodynamic Diameter) of SiO₂-Coated Ag Nanoparticles for Their Potential Use as Microbicidal Agents

In this investigation the structural, optical and electrophoretic properties of silica coated silver nanoparticles (Ag@SiO2) are investigated. These nanoparticles were synthesized through a physicochemical process that integrates laser ablation and redox-reactions. Silicon particles were produced by laser ablation of silicon target that was submerged in deionized water. These particles were fragmented through laser irradiation with lower fluence to facilitate their complete oxidation into SiO2. This procedure improved electron transfer and a higher production efficiency. When irradiated at wavelengths that correspond to their localized surface plasmon resonance, Ag@SiO2 nanoparticles demonstrated plasmonic effects with potential microbicidal effects. Controlled nanoparticles agglomeration is essential for microbicidal applications; aluminum chloride (AlCl3) was utilized to modify the surface charge and promote aggregation by neutralizing surface charge and reducing electrostatic repulsion by interaction of aluminum ions with silanol groups of the silica shell. Ag@SiO2 nanoparticles were assessed for their optical and electrophoretic properties at varying metal salt concentrations, which demonstrated the potential of AlCl3-enhanced nanoparticles for advanced antimicrobial applications. The potential of these research findings to facilitate the development of nanomaterials with targeted surface properties that exhibit effective biocidal properties is promising.