Ag-doped Bi₂O₃ nanoparticles: synthesis, characterization, antibacterial, larvicidal, and photocatalytic properties

Coldenia procumbens Linn leaf extract-mediated sol–gel route was employed to prepare silver (Ag⁺) ions doped bismuth(III) oxide nanostructures (Ag–Bi₂O₃ NPs). The effect on crystal structure, metal–oxygen/organic functional groups and light absorption capacity of Bi₂O₃ NPs by Ag⁺ ions (dopant) doping was determined by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and ultraviolet (UV)–visible spectroscopies. The silver (Ag⁺) doping into Bi₂O₃ lattices was further evaluated through X-photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Electron microscopic analysis was performed to know the morphological change of Bi₂O₃ particles by Ag⁺ ions doping process. Antibacterial and anti-larvicidal activities of Ag–Bi₂O₃ NPs were tested against the selected bacteria and mosquitoes larvae (Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus). The photo-decolorization of methylene blue (MB) aqueous solution under Ag–Bi₂O₃ NPs/visible light system has also been performed. The concentration of Ag played a crucial role in the bio- and photo-catalytic applications of Bi₂O₃ NPs. This study explores that Ag–Bi₂O₃ NPs may be considered for applications related to biomedical research and environmental protection efforts.