We present data for batch-to-batch variation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized with orange peel extract. These samples were prepared in the CEM microwave for 15 min. The relative standard deviation (as a measure of precision) is provided and is, in most cases, less than 20%.

The objective of this study was to assess the antibacterial activity and inhibition of biofilm formation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against Escherichia coli (MG1655), Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Janthinobacterium lividum. The AgNPs utilized in this study were prepared through one-pot microwave-assisted syntheses guided by principles of green chemistry. The AgNPs were synthesized in three different schemes by reducing Ag+ ions (from AgNO3) with reducing agents dextrose, arabinose, and soluble starch. Formation of AgNPs occurred in less than 15 min, and nanoparticles had diameters of 30 nm or less. Successful synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed using multiple orthogonal approaches, including UV–visible spectroscopy, fluorescence emission spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy, while size analysis was gathered from transmission electron microscopy images and dynamic light scattering. All AgNPs prepared in this study exhibited antibacterial effects on a variety of organisms as determined by a well diffusion assay with no antibacterial effects observed in the control wells.

Popular cultural themes or fads can provide an effective vehicle to enthuse students about science. The program described here uses current children's literature in a versatile chemical education activity. This activity generates excitement in elementary school students because of the integration of the popular Harry Potter literature series with hands-on experiments. Elementary school student participants are prompted to explore three main scientific topics during this activity: properties of solids, liquids, and gases; scientific ethics; and the scientific method. Undergraduate and high school student volunteer mentors are readily trained to conduct the activity within elementary schools via an introduction to the philosophy of the exercise in conjunction with working through the activity themselves. As an outreach activity it serves to connect undergraduate and high school students both with faculty and their community.