Abstract
In this study, the effects of Ag-ZnO nano-composites (NCs) on the germination of peanut (Arachis hypogaea) and kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) have been investigated. Two synthesis techniques have been utilized including green Synthesis and sol-gel method to compare their effect on germination of both types of beans. Various inquring approaches including XRD, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), EDX and UV-vis spectroscopy were employed to characterize the synthesized Ag-ZnO NCs. The XRD pattern showed that the synthesized powdered Ag-ZnO nano-composites have a highly crystalline pure structure without any secondary phase. SEM disclosed the spherical-shaped Ag NPs and rod-like ZnO NPs for green and sol-gel synthesis, respectively. The EDX spectra confirmed the materials through respective peaks of Ag, Zn and O which validates the synthesis of Ag-ZnO NCs. The different concentrations of nanostructures (100 ppm, 500 ppm and 1000 ppm) have been applied on peanut and kidney beans to study the variation in germination rate. The germinability, germination rate percentage, mean germination time (MGT) and root and shoot lengths are employed for consideration of variations in germination rate. In contrast to 1000 ppm concentration, both types of seeds present potential results at 500 ppm for green synthesis as well as sol-gel synthesis approach. This research is highly suitable for researchers for choice of suitable synthesis method as well as for food industry for the improvements in germination rates.