Abstract:
The advancement of nanotechnology has driven a growing interest in eco-friendly approaches for nanoparticle synthesis, emphasizing sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and reduced environmental toxicity. This study investigated the green synthesis of zirconium dioxide nanoparticles (ZrO₂NPs) employing ethanol extracts of Mount Ebony (Bauhinia Variegata ) pods, followed by calcination at 700 °C, and subsequently assessed their antifungal properties. Qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed abundant terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, and steroids, alongside moderate levels of tannins and phenols. Structural and physicochemical characterization of the biosynthesized nanoparticles using UV–Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, SEM, and XRD confirmed their nanoscale dimensions (average crystallite size ~14.2 nm), crystalline cubic phase, and the active participation of phytochemicals in nanoparticle reduction and stabilization. Antifungal susceptibility testing against Cryptococcus albidus, Cryptococcus neoformans, Fusarium verceloides, and Trichoderma viride showed strong inhibitory responses relative to ketoconazole, although precursor salts exhibited moderate activity. Overall, the results demonstrate the eco-sustainable potential of Bauhinia Variegata as a biogenic source for nanoparticle fabrication and underscore the need for further optimization to enhance their antifungal efficacy and broaden biomedical and environmental applications. This study cover the details of fabrication and antifungal activity results of ZrO2 NPs. This study endeavors to demonstrate the use of metallic NPs as an alternative antifungal.
Keywords: Green Synthesis, Mountain Ebony, Nanoparticles, Zirconium Dioxide, and Antifungal
