Response surface methodology (RSM) optimization for silver nanoparticle synthesis using glucose as reducing agent

The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has been successfully optimized by considering three key factors that significantly impact the synthesis process. These factors encompassed precursor concentration (AgNO₃), reductant concentration (glucose), and sonication time, each with three levels of variation. To optimize the process, the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) coupled with a Face-Centered Central Composite Design (FCCD) was employed. By utilizing FCCD modeling, a total of 15 distinct combinations were generated from the variations of each parameter. The combination of input variables and the absorbance data obtained from UV-Vis spectrophotometry was studied using RSM. The optimized conditions for AgNPs synthesis were determined, resulting in an AgNO₃ concentration of 0.01 M, a glucose concentration of 0.065 M, and a sonication time of 20 min. Statistical evaluation confirmed the significant influence of the optimized factors on the resulting response, with a p-value of 0.00799. Further analysis was conducted on the optimized AgNPs to assess their particle size and distribution using a Particle Size Analyzer (PSA). The optimized results demonstrated the presence of spherical nanoparticles with a size of 18 nm, displaying a single peak and a homogeneous monodisperse particle distribution.