Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Aluminium Nanoparticles from Rice Straw Extract: A Novel Approach to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance in Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli

This study presents an eco-friendly synthesis of aluminium nanoparticles (AlNPs) using rice straw extract (Rs-AlNPs) to address antimicrobial resistance. ATR-FTIR spectroscopy indicated the reduction and involvement of hydroxyl, alkane, overtone, and carbonyl groups in nanoparticle formation, evidenced by the disappearance of characteristic peaks. SEM analysis revealed Rs-AlNPs with an average diameter of 70-103 nm, predominantly spherical with slight agglomeration. EDX analysis confirmed aluminium as the predominant element (49.11%) with significant contributions from potassium (24.99%), magnesium (11.26%), and silicon (6.82%), consistent with rice straw composition. XRD analysis identified microcline (42%), enstatite (21%), quartz HP (16%), and osumilite (20%) as major crystalline phases, indicating a high aluminium content. Antimicrobial tests demonstrated dose-dependent efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. For S. aureus, inhibition zones increased from 8.0 mm at 50 µg to 16.0 mm at 100 µg, while for E. coli, zones increased from 2.0 mm at 25 µg to 14.8 mm at 100 µg. These findings underscore the potential of Rs-AlNPs as effective antimicrobial agents and highlight a sustainable approach to nanoparticle synthesis using agricultural waste, offering a viable solution to combat antimicrobial resistance.